Explosions, sustained gunfire in attack at Niger airport

Soldiers in Niger searched for militants around the capital Niamey's airport and military airbase on Thursday. Explosions and sustained gunfire were heard, which a security source described as an apparent attack on the facility. The situation appeared mostly calm by noon, with only sporadic fire possibly linked to the incident.

The attack occurred at the airport and military airbase in Niamey. The nature of the militants and their specific targets within the facility were not immediately clear. Security forces responded to the gunfire and explosions, attempting to secure the area and identify the perpetrators.

By midday, the intensity of the confrontation had decreased, with only isolated reports of gunfire. The full extent of the damage and any potential casualties were not immediately available. The incident raises concerns about the security situation in Niger, particularly around key infrastructure.