In brief
In the early hours of Thursday, heavy gunfire and blasts were heard near the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, Niger. Eyewitness accounts reported defensive measures against unidentified projectiles. The situation reportedly calmed down after two hours, but the cause of the explosions remains unclear, and there are no details on potential casualties. Local authorities are investigating whether the gunfire was connected to ongoing disputes over a significant uranium shipment stuck at the airport due to legal issues with France.
Sustained heavy gunfire and loud explosions have been reported near the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, Niger, early Thursday morning.
According to multiple eyewitness accounts and recordings, air defense systems were seen engaging unidentified projectiles around midnight. Residents nearby expressed their fear as they heard the intense bursts of gunfire and blasts, with many unable to sleep due to the disturbances.
A local resident described the frightening experience, stating, Our room and the whole house was shaking from the gunshots and explosions.” The situation reportedly calmed after two hours, with an official stating that everything was now under control, but without further elaboration.
The cause of the incidents remains under investigation, and there has been no official statement regarding potential casualties. There are also unverified reports suggesting that unknown attackers may have targeted planes at the airport.
The Diori Hamani International Airport serves as a crucial air hub, situated approximately 10km from the presidential palace. As such, security measures were escalated in the area following the events.
According to the FlightRadar24 website, several flights en route to Niamey have been redirected amid this uncertainty.
Niger, currently led by Interim President Abdourahamane Tiani after a coup in 2023, has been grappling with security threats from jihadist groups. Additionally, the country has faced ongoing diplomatic tensions with France over the nationalization of its uranium resources, with critical shipments stalled at the airport.
As the investigations continue, local authorities have urged the public to remain calm, emphasizing that the situation is under control.
