Niger: Clashes between security forces and gunmen result in casualties in Tillaberi Region July 11

Event

Unidentified assailants clashed with security forces near Tchoma Bangou, Tillaberi Region, July 11, resulting in the deaths of four soldiers, five civilians, and 40 militants. The attackers reportedly struck the village in the afternoon hours using motorcycles. Security personnel engaged the attackers, killing approximately 40 of them. Officials confirmed the incident and launched operations to apprehend the attackers. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet.

Tchoma Bangou is located south of the Malian border.

Security forces are likely to maintain a heightened security posture in the affected area in the near term. Further such attacks remain possible.

Context

Armed bandits and militants usually operate across Niger, notably around the Lake Chad region and the so-called tri-border area (Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali). Similar attacks have occurred in the past and have been attributed to armed bandits, smugglers, or militant Islamist groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State.

Advice

Monitor updates. Exercise increased vigilance if traveling in areas recently affected by violence. Plan accordingly for road travel disruptions and heed the instructions of security officials.