Nigerien security forces successfully repelled an attempted coup early Saturday morning that targeted a key military base, according to authorities. The Alliance of Sahel States, an organization comprising Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, characterized the incident as a "betrayal by a group of soldiers involved in an attempt at destabilisation."
Details regarding the number of soldiers involved or casualties remain undisclosed by authorities. Niger's military ruler, Gen. Tiani, who assumed the presidency last year following the deposition of the elected leader, has not made a public statement on the event.
Footage aired on the nation's state broadcaster depicted the arrest of several individuals accused of participating in the mutiny by the Presidential Guard. Commercial activities in Niamey began to normalize on Sunday, with reports of petrol stations, shops, and other businesses reopening. Supporters of the current government gathered in a central square to express solidarity with the security forces and Gen. Tiani's administration.
The military site attacked, Air Base 101, is situated within the Diori Hamani airport complex. This base houses Nigerien military aircraft and drones, and serves as a location for an Alliance of Sahel States counter-terrorism unit. Russian and Italian forces are also stationed at the base.
Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, are military-led nations that have recently severed ties with Western partners and intensified cooperation with Russia. Despite these geopolitical shifts, jihadist violence continues to be a pervasive issue across all three countries. The mutiny on Saturday underscores the challenges Niger's government faces, not only from external insurgencies but also from internal dissent within its own military ranks.
Air Base 101 had been previously targeted by jihadist groups earlier this year, with attacks attributed to an Islamic State affiliate and an al-Qaeda affiliate. Following the attempted takeover, Nigerien authorities have reportedly increased security patrols around critical locations in Niamey, including the main airport entrance and the presidential pavilion.