Gunfire and explosions in Niger's capital as mutinying soldiers attack targets

Niger's capital, Niamey, was rocked by gunfire and explosions as mutinying soldiers attacked targets near the airport, a military base, and the presidential palace. The Ministry of Defense confirmed the events, which began overnight and continued into Saturday morning, prompting residents to report "heavy gunfire and explosions."

The military urged citizens to remain calm as security forces were mobilized. Power outages were reported in some areas, and the national television broadcaster, Télé Sahel, went off the air. Initially, it was unclear whether the violence was linked to terrorism or an internal military uprising.

It has since emerged that the unrest stems from a faction of soldiers turning against the leadership of the military junta. Niger has been under military rule since a coup in 2023 that ousted the democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, who remains detained. The exact reasons for this internal military conflict remain unclear.

Reports indicate that the mutinying soldiers attempted to enter the presidential palace but were repelled by security forces. A Defense Ministry representative stated on state television that security forces were regaining control of the affected locations. The airport in Niamey has been a target for jihadists twice this year, in January and June, but this current incident appears to be an internal power struggle within the ruling junta.