Gunmen on motorbikes have reportedly killed 22 individuals in an attack on a village in western Niger, primarily targeting those attending a baptism ceremony. This incident occurred in the Tillabéri region, which shares borders with Mali and Burkina Faso. Local residents indicated that 15 of the victims were killed during the ceremony itself, with the attack continuing in other locations where an additional seven were murdered.
Niger’s military government has faced challenges in addressing the increasing jihadist violence in the region, which is linked to groups like al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Local media reported the death toll, describing the killings as senseless, though Nigerien authorities have only confirmed the occurrence of the attack without providing specific casualty figures.
According to Human Rights Watch, there has been a marked rise in attacks in Niger since March, with over 127 villagers and Muslim worshippers killed in various incidents during this period. Additionally, many homes have been looted and set ablaze. The organization criticized the government for insufficiently responding to prior warnings and failing to assist affected communities.
Recently, a ambush claimed the lives of 14 Nigerien soldiers in the same Tillabéri region. The military noted that its unit was responding to reports of cattle theft, which was revealed to be a trap. Verification of casualty numbers in such attacks is often complicated by access restrictions and local fears of retaliation.
On social media, local activist Maikoul Zodi raised concerns about the ongoing insecurity facing civilians and called for the government to prioritize their safety. Following a military coup in 2023, Niger has been under military control, similar to its neighbors, Burkina Faso and Mali, which are also battling jihadist threats. These nations have restricted their cooperation with Western forces, opting instead to seek support from Russia and Turkey while still grappling with persistent violence.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce863x3g7jko?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss