Clashes in Niger after troops try to storm presidential palace
On Saturday, Niger's capital witnessed violent confrontations between the presidential guard and armed forces personnel following a night filled with intense gunfire across various city areas. According to a security source, the turmoil was sparked by an attempt from insurgents within the Nigerien armed forces to breach the presidential palace. The presidential guard successfully repelled the attackers, leading to ongoing gunfire exchanges at the palace. An African diplomat in Niamey reported that the presidential guard remains loyal to General Abdourahamane Tiani, the current ruler. The military announced it was "gradually regaining control" after mutineers took hostages at a base near the airport. For three years, Niger has been governed by a military junta facing persistent jihadist violence.
Key facts
- Clashes erupted in Niger's capital on Saturday between the presidential guard and elements of the armed forces.
- The unrest followed a night of heavy gunfire in parts of the city.
- An attempt by insurgents from the Nigerien armed forces to enter the presidential palace was pushed back by the presidential guard.
- Exchanges of gunfire continued at the palace.
- An African diplomat in Niamey said the presidential guard was still loyal to ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani.
- The military said it was 'gradually regaining control' after mutineers took soldiers hostage at a base next to the capital's airport.
- Niger has been ruled for three years by a military junta.
- The junta has struggled to contain jihadist violence that has blighted the country for around a decade.
Entities
Institutions
- Nigerien armed forces
- presidential guard
Locations
- Niger
- Niamey