Clashes erupt in Niger capital

Clashes erupt in Niger capital

Clashes broke out in Niger’s capital, Niamey, on Saturday between the presidential guard and members of the armed forces following hours of heavy gunfire and explosions in parts of the city.

A security source told AFP that soldiers attempted to enter the presidential palace but the presidential guard pushed them back. Gunfire continued around the palace as tensions escalated.

An African diplomat in Niamey said the presidential guard remained loyal to Niger’s military ruler, General Abdourahamane Tiani.

The military later said it was gradually restoring control after mutineers reportedly took several soldiers hostage at a military base near the capital’s airport.

In a statement read on national television by Defence Minister General Salifou Mody, the authorities urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities. Earlier, the military had also warned people against spreading unverified information.

Residents reported intense fighting around Base 101 near the airport. One resident described hearing heavy gunfire and explosions, while others reported intermittent shooting in different parts of the capital.

National broadcaster Tele Sahel temporarily went off air for more than an hour, showing a black screen on both satellite television and its online stream. The channel resumed broadcasting around 10am local time, or 2pm Pakistan time.

Residents also said soldiers blocked access to the presidential palace and national television station. Videos circulating online showed armoured vehicles moving into areas near the airport.

Niger has remained under military rule for three years as authorities struggle to contain a decade-long jihadist insurgency. The latest clashes have raised concerns over renewed instability within the country’s security forces.