Niger: Suspected Boko Haram attack in Diffa region March 8

Event

At least seven soldiers were killed and approximately 20 more wounded when suspected Boko Haram militants attacked their position near Gueskerou (Diffa region, near the Nigerian border) on Friday, March 8. According to Nigerien authorities, the soldiers engaged the attackers and succeeded in driving them back, killing 19 militants and taking one captive. In addition, the military destroyed five of their vehicles and seized two more. Similar incidents are possible in Diffa region over the near term.

Context

Niger faces a high threat from terrorism, including armed attacks and abductions. Boko Haram and affiliated groups maintain the ability to conduct attacks in the Lake Chad region despite ongoing military operations in the area. The Diffa region has been under a state of emergency since February 2015, which has been extended by the government several times.

Advice

Individuals in 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.