Niamey: An attempted incursion by terrorist elements at the terminal of the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey resulted in the deaths of 11 members of the defense and security forces and 2 civilians. Additionally, 22 assailants were neutralized, and about twenty suspects were arrested.
According to Burkina Information Agency, a statement from the Nigerien Ministry of National Defence detailed that the assailants, who arrived in two taxis and a van, attempted to enter the airport premises. “The prompt reaction of the Defense and Security Forces made it possible to neutralize the attackers before they reached the airport terminal,” the statement said.
The provisional toll of this attempted incursion stands at 13 martyrs, including 11 members of the defense and security forces and 2 civilians killed, as well as 4 wounded. On the assailants’ side, 22 were neutralized and about twenty suspects were arrested.
The recovered equipment from the attack included 3 M80 rifles, 2 RPG-7s, 11 AK-47s, hand grenades, 80 loose rounds of ammunition, 44 loaded AK-47 magazines, 3 M80 belts with thousands of rounds, 13 magazine pouches, 7 VHF radios, 11 cell phones, and other items. Two taxis and a van used by the attackers were also seized.
The Ministry of Defence indicated that a large-scale sweep operation is underway to track down and neutralize any remaining elements. It was assured that the Diori Hamani international airport in Niamey is completely secure and remains open to air traffic.
On behalf of the President of the Republic, Head of State and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the Minister of State, Minister of National Defence, offered condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. He commended the Defense and Security Forces for their courage and professionalism and reassured national and international opinion that the situation is under control.
The Minister of State, Minister of National Defence, also thanked the population for their constant support of the security forces and invited them to report any suspicious acts or behavior.