Gunfire and explosions shake Niger's capital Niamey

Sustained gunfire and loud explosions were heard in parts of Niamey, the capital of Niger Republic.

The incident happened early Saturday, marking the third similar event in the junta-led country this year.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that there were two attacks earlier this year targeting areas in Niamey, including the international airport.

Saturday’s attack lasted about two hours and hit the airport and the security area near the presidency.

Reuters reported that Bana Ibrahim, a member of Niger’s Bureau of the Consultative Council, shared news of the attack on Facebook.

“Another cowardly attack against Base 101 and once again our defense and security forces have ensured,” Mr Ibrahim posted about six hours ago.

He said the situation is “under control.”

But witnesses told the news agency that the attack was still going on after Mr Ibrahim’s post.

A jihadi attack or attempted coup?

The motive behind the attack and who was behind it remain unclear. Analysts have different views, with some linking the attack to jihadists while others suspect coup plotters.

Niger has faced many jihadi attacks and threats from groups like the Islamic State and al-Qaeda affiliates in Lake Chad and the Sahel region.

The military junta, led by Abdourahamane Tchiani, took power from a democratically elected government in July 2023 and detained President Mohamed Bazoum.

Since the takeover, Mr Tchiani’s regime has dealt with ongoing jihadi attacks and issues with the regional Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

While previous attacks were linked to jihadists, no group has taken responsibility for the recent violence.

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Wasim Nasir, a French journalist covering violence in the Sahel, posted on X that Saturday’s attack could be a “coup d’état” or a clash between military personnel.

Hasret Kargin, a conflict researcher, said “there is currently no information on whether the attack was carried out by jihadists or was an attempted coup.”

“Given the recent attacks, rebel groups could also be added to the list of possibilities,” he added.

As of now, the government has not released any more official statements about the attack.