Sustained heavy gunfire and loud explosions have been reported near Niger's international airport outside the capital, Niamey. Witnesses shared videos showing air defense systems in action against unidentified projectiles. Official sources claim the situation is under control, but uncertainty looms regarding any casualties or the causes of the incident.
The chaos began just after midnight, with residents near the Diori Hamani International Airport saying it lasted about two hours. Some locals claimed the blasts might have targeted airplanes at the airport—a hub for the air force located about 10 km from the presidential palace.
Eyewitness accounts illustrate a scene of panic, with one resident mentioning her home shaking due to the gunshots. Reports of unexplained blasts have led to diversions of flights bound for Niamey.
Niger’s security forces are on high alert as the country, ruled by a military government after a 2023 coup, continues to confront threats from jihadist groups operating in the region, which include Burkina Faso and Mali. The situation raises concerns, especially with a large uranium shipment stalled at the airport over diplomatic issues relating to France.
Officials have assured the public there is no cause for alarm, although they aim to investigate if the gunfire is linked to the ongoing uranium shipment complications.
The chaos began just after midnight, with residents near the Diori Hamani International Airport saying it lasted about two hours. Some locals claimed the blasts might have targeted airplanes at the airport—a hub for the air force located about 10 km from the presidential palace.
Eyewitness accounts illustrate a scene of panic, with one resident mentioning her home shaking due to the gunshots. Reports of unexplained blasts have led to diversions of flights bound for Niamey.
Niger’s security forces are on high alert as the country, ruled by a military government after a 2023 coup, continues to confront threats from jihadist groups operating in the region, which include Burkina Faso and Mali. The situation raises concerns, especially with a large uranium shipment stalled at the airport over diplomatic issues relating to France.
Officials have assured the public there is no cause for alarm, although they aim to investigate if the gunfire is linked to the ongoing uranium shipment complications.
