15 Jan 2020 | 01:43 PM UTC
Niger: Islamic State claims responsibility for Chinagrodar attack January 14
The Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) claims responsibility for attack in Chinagrodar on January 14; similar attacks possible over the near term
Event
On Tuesday, January 14, the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) claimed responsibility for the January 9 attack that left 89 soldiers dead at a Chinagodrar army outpost (Tillabéri region).
Similar militant attacks are possible in the area over the near term.
Context
Niger faces a high threat from terrorism, including armed attacks and abductions. Militant Islamist cells from various Nigerian and Malian terrorist groups 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.
Many Western governments advise their citizens against all travel to areas located in the north and west of the country, including areas along the border with Burkina Faso, as well as areas along the Nigerian border to the south, due to the high risk of terrorist activity.
