The Agadez region faced a serious security challenge when armed groups targeted a Niger National Guard (GNN) position near Abalama, along the strategic Zinder–Agadez axis. The assailants, seeking to destabilize the region, launched an attack that was described as unusually intense.
Nigerien defense and security forces responded with swift and decisive action, repelling the attackers and limiting the damage.
The human toll on the government side included one soldier killed in action and five others wounded, with one later succumbing to injuries.
On the opposing side, two attackers were neutralized immediately, one was captured during the clash, and subsequent operations led to the arrest of two more combatants.
Authorities also recovered a substantial cache of weapons and equipment, including four FM80 machine guns, four AK-47 assault rifles, two RPG-7 rocket launchers with charges, three ready-to-use rockets, a Motorola radio, and a significant quantity of ammunition.
A Toyota Tundra vehicle abandoned by fleeing assailants was retrieved during follow-up operations on September 3.
Brigadier General Ibra Boulama Issa, governor of the Agadez region, visited the wounded soldiers and their units the following day, offering congratulations and encouragement on behalf of the Head of State and President of the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP).
“The vigorous response of our FDS enabled us to rout the attackers who arrived in four vehicles.
The pursuit is underway and the search is continuing to neutralize the remaining elements,” he declared, praising the bravery of the Niger National Guard and UMPP units for their relentless pursuit of the attackers.
This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in northern Niger, where the threat from armed groups remains significant. Defense and security forces, operating under the coordination of regional authorities, continue to mobilize resources to restore and preserve social peace. Their mission, often carried out at great personal risk, remains the defence of Nigerien territory and the protection of the population and their property.
The successful repulsion of the attack demonstrates Niger’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens and maintaining stability in one of the country’s most strategically important regions.
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