What You Need to Know
Niger’s security forces have reported the killing of 17 suspected gunmen and the arrest of 33 others during operations conducted from February 16 to 22. The operations, part of plans named ‘Nia,’ ‘Damisa,’ and ‘Garkoua,’ also led to the seizure of explosives, drugs, and smuggled fuel, aimed at disrupting criminal networks in the region.
Africa-Press. The Integrated Operations Coordination Center (CICO) announced that Niger’s defense and security forces killed 17 suspected gunmen and arrested 33 others during operations conducted between February 16 and 22 as part of the “Nia,” “Damisa,” and “Garkoua” plans.
According to an official statement, the operations resulted in the seizure of 1,098 dynamite sticks, 48 kilograms of cannabis, and over 23,000 liters of smuggled fuel, along with hundreds of thousands of harmful pills.
Authorities confirmed that these results “weaken the logistical and financial networks of criminal groups.”
On the right bank of the Niger River, security forces recovered weapons, ammunition, and communication devices following a sweep operation in the village of Sirim-Tondikouri, and stolen livestock was returned to its owners.
In the “Damisa” operation, a large boat transporting 19 smaller boats, hunting weapons, and ammunition was seized, while an attempt by armed individuals on motorcycles to infiltrate near the border was thwarted, with the assailants fleeing toward Nigeria.
Authorities emphasized the continued security pressure and urged residents to cooperate to enhance stability amid ongoing challenges from armed groups and smuggling across borders and river routes.
Niger has faced significant security challenges in recent years, particularly from armed groups and criminal networks operating in the region. The government has intensified military operations to combat these threats, focusing on dismantling logistics and financial networks that support such groups. The ongoing instability has prompted calls for increased cooperation between security forces and local communities to enhance safety and stability.
