01 Feb 2019 | 10:29 PM UTC
Niger: Military convoy hit by IED attack in Tillabéri region Jan. 31
Nigerien military convoy hit by IED attack in Tillabéri region on January 31; four soldiers wounded
Event
A Niger Armed Forces (FAN) convoy hit a mine or improvised explosive device (IED) in Titahoune (Tillabéri region) on Thursday, January 31. According to military officials, at least four Nigerien soldiers were wounded in the blast. Further such attacks are possible in the coming days and weeks.
Context
Niger faces a high threat from terrorism, including armed attacks and abductions. Militant Islamist cells from various Nigerian and Malian terrorist groups - including Boko Haram as well as Al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), the Movement for Oneness and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO), and Al-Mourabitoun - are all active in the country.
Advice
Individuals throughout Niger should exercise vigilance when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted by an attack (e.g. government buildings, prominent hotels, etc.) and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.
As a reminder, many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to areas in the north and west of the country, as well areas along the borders with Burkina Faso and Nigeria, due to the high risk of terrorist activity.
