Clashes rock Niger capital, junta says back in control

Explosions and gunfire erupted in Niger's capital city, Niamey, on Saturday morning following attacks on the international airport and a major military base, according to security sources. The motive behind the assault remained unclear, but a source indicated that "terrorists" targeted Diori Hamani International Airport and tried to infiltrate the security perimeter surrounding the presidential palace.

Witnesses reported continuous gunfire near the palace, while a second attack occurred near the airport around 2 am local time.

Bana Ibrahim, a member of Niger's Consultative Council and the Alliance of Sahel States parliament, reported that the attackers struck Base 101, a crucial military installation in Niamey. He asserted that security forces had regained control of the situation. "Another cowardly attack on Base 101 and once again our defense and security forces ensured ... situation under control," Mr Ibrahim posted on Facebook. However, Reuters could not independently confirm these claims.

Some reports suggested that security forces were conducting search operations, neutralizing certain attackers while others fled. Niger's military government did not respond to requests for comment. Online footage showed several wounded individuals, but authorities have not disclosed an official death toll.

The assault took place amid ongoing Islamist insurgencies in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, linked to Al Qaeda and ISIS. Despite assurances from their military governments to restore security, the three nations have struggled against the insurgents. The current junta in Niger, led by Gen Abdourahamane Tiani, severed ties with Western partners, solidified relationships with Russia, and joined Mali and Burkina Faso in the Alliance of Sahel States, which seceded from the West African regional bloc Ecowas.

With its vast uranium and oil reserves, Niger serves as a significant producer of these natural resources.

The unrest stems from an escalating dispute over Niger's uranium sector, as the military government assumes greater control over mining assets previously owned by foreign companies. The government recently reassigned uranium permits from French nuclear company Orano and Canadian miner GoviEx to state-owned entities.