Title: A jihadist attack shakes Niger: the three-border region on alert
Introduction: A large-scale attack took place this Thursday morning in Niger, in the three border area. An army fortress, located near Kandadji, a major hydroelectric dam under construction, was violently attacked by armed attackers. Nigerien authorities said the attack left seven soldiers dead and five others lost their lives in a traffic accident during the ensuing intervention. This attack raises many concerns about the rise in power of jihadist groups in the region.
Numerous and determined attackers:
According to testimonies collected by RFI, the attack was carried out by several dozen attackers on motorcycles and in cars. They launched a violent assault on the army’s fortress, provoking heavy fighting. The Nigerien authorities quickly mobilized reinforcements and initiated pursuits to the village of Tamalate, on the Malian side, controlled by the Islamic State in the Great Sahara (EIGS) group since last March. This attack demonstrates the ability of jihadist groups to operate in an area that is already unstable and under tension.
The consequences on the Kandadji dam:
This fortress was built to ensure the security of the Kandadji dam construction site, a crucial project for the economic development of Niger. However, work was suspended due to the suspension of international funding. This attack therefore raises questions about the continuity of the construction site and the security measures put in place.
A worrying situation:
Jihadist groups, including EIGS, have gained power in the region in recent years, extending their influence as far as neighboring Mali. The desire of the EIGS to expand into Niger is obvious and this raises serious concerns about the security of the country. In addition, the recall of Nigerien special forces to the capital, Niamey, to protect the putschists, weakens the capacity to react to these attacks.
Conclusion :
This jihadist attack in Niger highlights the vulnerability of the three-border region to the rise of jihadist groups. It also raises questions about the security of the Kandadji dam project and the capacity of the Nigerien government to face this growing threat. It is imperative that enhanced security measures be put in place to protect the region’s populations and development projects.