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 a security source cited by Dawn and South China Morning Post, 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, with reports of heavy shooting and activity around Air Force Base 101. The military, as reported by Dawn and South China Morning Post, said it was "gradually regaining control" after mutineers took soldiers hostage at the base.

The authorities, via Defence Minister General Salifou Mody, called on the public to "remain calm and freely go about their business". An African diplomat in Niamey stated that, for now, the presidential guard remains loyal to ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani.

Brief written by urgent.news from Punch, Punch Nigeria, Dawn, South China Morning Post, Daily Trust — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.