Islamic State claims responsibility for attack on Niger army that killed dozens

By REUTERS

MARCH 23, 2024 23:08

Updated: MARCH 23, 2024 23:33

Nigerien security forces prepare to disperse pro-junta demonstrators gathered outside the French embassy, in Niamey, the capital city of Niger July 30, 2023. (photo credit: REUTERS/Souleymane Ag Anara) — Nigerien security forces prepare to disperse pro-junta demonstrators gathered outside the French embassy, in Niamey, the capital city of Niger July 30, 2023.

(photo credit: REUTERS/Souleymane Ag Anara)

Niger is one of several West African countries battling an Islamist insurgency that has spread outwards from Mali over the past 12 years, killing thousands and uprooting millions of people.

Islamic State on Saturday claimed responsibility for an attack on Niger's army that it said had killed 30 soldiers on Wednesday.

The group said in a statement carried by its AMAQ news agency and posted on its Telegram channel that the soldiers were killed in an ambush on a convoy near the town of Teguey in the Tillaberi region in the west of the country.

ISIS has also claimed responsibility for the fatal terror attack in Moscow on Saturday, which killed upward of 143 people.

Niger's defense ministry said late on Thursday that 23 soldiers were killed in the attack, which also wounded 17 more. Around 30 attackers were killed, it added.

Niger is one of several West African countries battling an Islamist insurgency that has spread outwards from Mali over the past 12 years, killing thousands and uprooting millions of people.

Thousands of Nigeriens gather in front of the French army headquarter, in support of the putschist soldiers and to demand the French army to leave, in Niamey, Niger September 2, 2023 (credit: Mahamadou Hamidou/Reuters)

Anger at govt impotence has led to coups in region

Frustrations over authorities' failure to protect civilians have spurred military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger since 2020.

The juntas that seized power have cut ties with Western allies assisting local military efforts, kicking out French and other European forces and turning to Russia instead.

Niger's junta last week revoked with immediate effect a military accord that allows military personnel and civilian staff from the US Department of Defense on its soil.