Gunfire and explosions heard near airport in Niger’s capital, residents say

A burst of heavy gunfire and explosions erupted early Thursday near the international airport in Niger’s capital Niamey before halting within hours, residents told AFP.

Videos filmed by residents of the area showed streaks of light in the sky with the sound of loud explosions, while other images showed flames several metres high and charred cars.

The capital’s Diori Hamani International Airport houses an air force base and is located about 10 kilometres from the presidential palace.

Niger, a country hit regularly by jihadist attacks, has been led for more than two years by Abdourahamane Tiani, the head of a junta that overthrew the country’s elected civilian president in 2023.

Read more: France 24