Niger: French nationals killed in suspected militant attack in Koure (Tillaberi region) August 9

Event

At least eight people, including six French nationals, were reported to have been killed on Sunday, August 9, in a suspected militant attack in the Koure area of the Tillaberi region. The group are believed to have been visiting a wildlife reserve in the area, around 50km (30 miles) east of Niamey, when they were attacked by an unknown number of gunmen who arrived on motorcycles. Further information on the attack is currently unavailable.

Security operations are likely in the Koure area and elsewhere in the eastern Tillaberi region in the near term following the high-profile attack.

Context

There has been increasing concern in recent years over the threat from terrorism in the Niger's Tillaberi region as groups such as Nusrat al-Islam (JNIM), Islamic State in the Greater Sahel (ISGS), and Ansarul Islam have expanded their operations across the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso. Hundreds of military personnel and civilians have been killed in the region in sporadic attacks on security forces patrols and bases, as well as refugee camps, since 2018. The attacks have prompted a significant increase in security deployments in the southwest, including a newly built US airbase, but the government has struggled to stem the violence. Parts of the Tillaberi and Tahoua regions remain under a state of emergency due to the persistent insecurity.

Advice

Those in the Tillaberi region are advised to monitor developments, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. The security environment in Niger remains complex and professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.