09 Apr 2020 | 10:58 PM UTC
Niger: Unidentified militants kill two gendarmes in Banibangou (Tillabéri region) April 5
Unidentified militants kill at least two gendarmes in Banibangou (Tillabéri region) on April 5; further attacks possible in the region over the near term
Event
On Sunday, April 5, unidentified militants killed at least two gendarmes and wounded nine others in an attack in Banibangou (Tillabéri region). At least two assailants were killed and nine others were captured in the fighting; the remaining attackers fled the area. Security forces recovered motorcycles that the attackers used, as well as several weapons. A spokesperson for the government of Niger stated that the remaining militants were killed in subsequent operations to pursue them, supported by French military aircraft.
Similar militant attacks and security operations are possible in Tillabéri region over the near term.
Context
More than 170 soldiers have been killed in militant attacks in Niger since December 2019, mostly in the Nigerien Sahel.
Advice
Individuals in Tillabéri region are advised to monitor developments to the situation, 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.
