Niger’s Ministry of National Defence says gunfire from heavy weapons targeted several sensitive sites in Niamey overnight Friday into Saturday, before Defence and Security Forces gradually regained control. Defence Minister General Salifou Mody said the forces had contained what authorities described as a “movement of mood,” but provided no details on its origin or those responsible. The National Committee for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP) had earlier urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information following reports of gunfire and explosions in several parts of the capital.
Reports circulating overnight indicated incidents near strategic government locations, including the presidential palace and Diori Hamani International Airport. Authorities have not confirmed the extent of any damage or casualties and no group had claimed responsibility at the time of the statement. The government has called on residents to remain calm and continue their normal activities, while the circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear.
