Multiple Attacks Target Presidential Palace and Government Offices in Niger's Capital

Witnesses and activists reported hearing continuous gunfire and explosions in several areas of "Niamey," the capital of Niger, early Saturday morning.

Local activists reported gunfire around the Diori Hamani International Airport and near the presidential palace in the capital.

Activists and social media accounts shared videos and photos claiming to document ongoing clashes and explosions across the country.

Background audio in the circulated videos includes intense, continuous gunfire interspersed with loud explosion sounds.

Some local reports indicated seeing armored vehicles moving through various areas, while military reinforcements were reportedly heading toward the capital.

Unofficial reports so far mention casualties among Niger's armed forces, with news of injured personnel being evacuated for treatment.

A security source told Reuters that "terrorists" attacked the city's Diori Hamani International Airport and attempted to breach the security perimeter surrounding the presidential headquarters.

Bana Wajana Ibrahim, member of the Niger Advisory Council office and a parliamentarian in the Sahel Coalition, wrote on "Facebook" that attackers targeted Base 101, a major military installation in Niamey, but security forces regained control.

Ibrahim wrote: "Another cowardly attack on Base 101, and once again our defensive and security forces have confirmed the situation is under control."

A second security source told Reuters that security forces launched search operations and that attackers were "neutralized," while others fled.

The Nigerien military has been in power since the July 2023 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Since then, the military government led by General Abdourahmane Tiani has distanced itself from traditional Western allies and established closer ties with Russia, similar to the military governments in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso.

The three countries in West Africa's Sahel region formed a security and political alliance after their respective military councils seized power in a wave of coups across the region.

The three nations continue fighting armed rebellions linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS, despite pledges by their military leaders to improve security conditions.