More than 50 security personnel were killed in two jihadist attacks in western Niger. Tap through for what we know.
Two security sources told Reuters on September 28, 2026 that over 50 members of Niger's security forces were killed in two attacks in the country's west.
On Wednesday, a convoy of gendarmes was ambushed near Abala-Filingué in the Tillabéri region, close to the Mali and Burkina Faso borders.
On Saturday, a separate attack in Birni-N'Konni killed more than 30 soldiers, making it one of the deadliest single incidents in years.
Islamic State Sahel Province, the regional Islamic State affiliate, issued two statements on Sunday claiming responsibility for both attacks.
SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors jihadist communications, reported the group's claims on Monday, as cited by Reuters.
In January 2026, the same group attacked the civilian airport and military airbase in the capital Niamey.
Last month, mutinous soldiers attacked the airport and the presidency, triggering a standoff with junta-loyal forces backed by Africa Corps troops.
The Kremlin-controlled paramilitary force supports the junta after Niger's 2023 coup ended partnerships with Western counterterror forces.
Niger's military-led government seized power in a 2023 coup, promising security gains that have yet to materialize against the insurgency.
The violence is part of the Sahel's widening insurgency across Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso — one of the world's most neglected conflicts.
Analysts say frustration is growing within frontline army units after repeated losses, raising doubts about the junta's ability to stabilize the country.