Niger troops clash with presidential guard after palace attempt

Clashes erupted in Niger's capital, Niamey, on Saturday, involving the presidential guard and elements of the armed forces. According to the South China Morning Post, a security source said there was an attempt by insurgents from the Nigerien armed forces to enter the presidential palace, but they were pushed back by the presidential guard.

Gunfire and explosions were heard in parts of the city, including around a military base near the international airport and in the administrative district where the presidential palace and national television station are located, as reported by Daily Trust and TheCable.

The military later stated they were "gradually regaining control" after mutineers took soldiers hostage at a base next to the airport. An African diplomat said the presidential guard remained loyal to ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani. The authorities urged the public to "remain calm and freely go about their business".

Brief written by urgent.news from Punch Nigeria, South China Morning Post, Daily Trust, TheCable — 4 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.