Calm returns to Niamey after special forces mutiny, dozens of soldiers arrested
Calm returned to Niamey on Sunday, August 30, following a mutiny by special forces soldiers. The rebellious soldiers attempted to seize the presidential palace and national television before retreating to a military base near the airport. Loyalist forces regained control after clashes. The capital remains heavily secured with armed vehicles, barbed wire, and increased checkpoints. Some mutineers surrendered after negotiations, while others were dislodged during an assault by General Abdourahamane Tiani's presidential guard, supported by armored vehicles and, according to RFI, by Russian Africa Corps forces using drones. National television showed nearly a hundred captured soldiers, some injured. Further arrests occurred overnight, with at least ten people detained. No official casualty figures have been released. Initially described by Minister of Defense Salifou Mody as a "mood swing," the uprising may indicate deeper discontent within the army. The mutineers were primarily young special forces officers engaged in counter-jihadist operations, reportedly frustrated by heavy losses. The Alliance of Sahel States condemned the "destabilization attempt," stating it was thwarted.
