Niger Airport Attack Kills 13 as Security Forces Repel Armed Raid

Niger Airport Attack Kills 13 as Security Forces Repel Armed Raid
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At least 13 people were killed in an attack on the international airport in Niger’s capital, Niamey, officials said, months after jihadist fighters carried out a major assault on the sensitive site.

Niger’s Defence Ministry said 11 soldiers and two civilians were killed in Thursday’s attack on Diori Hamani International Airport. Four others were wounded, while 22 attackers were killed as security forces repelled the raid.

Gunfire erupted early in the morning near the airport entrance and continued for several hours, according to residents. A large military deployment was later seen around the area.

An airport source said the attackers arrived at a security checkpoint by taxi before meeting strong resistance from security forces. The Defence Ministry said some of the assailants were wearing explosive belts.

Security forces launched wide sweeps in neighborhoods surrounding the airport, where some attackers had reportedly scattered. Residents said soldiers were supported by local people searching for suspects in nearby areas.

The Defence Ministry said about 20 suspects were arrested and that a large-scale military operation remained under way. It added that the airport was fully secured and remained open to air traffic.