Early Thursday morning, the area surrounding Diori Hamani International Airport in Niger's capital, Niamey, experienced significant gunfire and explosions, as reported by local residents and AFP. This outbreak of violence sent shockwaves through adjacent neighborhoods, where residents reported hearing loud blasts and witnessing flames rising into the night sky.
Footage shared by the community depicted bright lights, severe explosions, burned vehicles, and billowing smoke clouds in the vicinity of the airport. The shooting commenced soon after midnight and lasted approximately two hours before order was restored.
The airport, situated about 10 kilometers from the presidential palace, is not only a crucial transportation hub but also accommodates an air force base. It is a strategic location that serves as the headquarters for a collaborative military force organized by Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali to combat extremist threats.
Currently, there are no official reports confirming any injuries or fatalities, and the root cause of the violence remains uncertain. Eyewitnesses noted sightings and sounds of emergency responders rushing to the scene.
Niger's governance has been under military control since 2023, spearheaded by Abdourahamane Tiani following a coup that ousted the previous civilian government. The airport has garnered recent attention due to a significant uranium shipment that has been delayed for weeks.
Official word from authorities on this incident has yet to be announced.
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