Niger Republic says attack on airport attempted coup by mutinous soldiers

NIAMEY, Niger - Dozens of soldiers were either killed or arrested following a mutiny at a key military base in the capital of Niamey, according to state television and analysts. The unrest, which lasted a few hours, involved sustained gunfire and explosions at the airport military base and near the presidential palace. The mutiny, described as a threat to the ruling junta, allegedly stemmed from soldiers' grievances over the country's security issues and the killing of their colleagues.

Russian-backed African Corps forces provided aerial and ground support to local forces, though the situation remained tense with mutineers still camped at the airport. The whereabouts of military leader Abdourahamane Tchiani are unknown.