Niger troops clash with presidential guard in capital after palace attempt

Niger's capital, Niamey, was rocked by heavy gunfire and clashes on Saturday as elements of the armed forces reportedly attempted to enter the presidential palace. The presidential guard repelled the incursion, leading to ongoing exchanges of gunfire around the palace, according to a security source speaking to AFP.

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There was an attempt by insurgents from the Nigerien armed forces to enter the presidential palace. They were pushed back by the presidential guard. Exchanges of gunfire are continuing at the palace.

The incident marks a significant escalation in the country's internal security situation. Niger has been under the rule of a military junta for three years, struggling to contain persistent jihadist violence that has plagued the West African nation for about a decade. An African diplomat in Niamey indicated that the presidential guard remained loyal to ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani.

The military announced it was "gradually regaining control" after mutineers took soldiers hostage at a base near the capital's airport. In a statement broadcast on public television, Defense Minister General Salifou Mody urged the public to remain calm and continue their daily activities, while also calling for restraint in sharing unverified information.

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Our defence and security forces have been mobilised for the defence of the homeland.

Witnesses reported hearing "heavy gunfire and explosions" at Base 101 near the airport, and the national TV station, Tele Sahel, went off air for over an hour. Access to the presidential palace and national television was blocked by soldiers. The sounds of weapons, described as heavier than those typically used by jihadist groups, suggest a significant internal military confrontation.

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remain calm and freely go about their business