Niger’s military has accused “terrorists” of killing seven civilians in a recent attack on a village in the western part of the country.
The exact date of the raid remains unclear, but authorities confirmed the incident occurred this week.
According to an army statement, the attack targeted the village of Dosso Kouregou, located near Kokorou in the Tillaberi region.
Militants on motorbikes stormed the village, killing seven civilians and stealing cattle before fleeing.
The statement further revealed that a search operation is underway to apprehend those responsible.
The attack comes amidst ongoing military efforts against extremist groups in the region.
The army highlighted the neutralization of 13 “terrorists” and the arrest of 29 others in Tillaberi prior to the Dosso Kouregou raid.
The Tillaberi region, bordering Mali and Burkina Faso, has become a hotspot for extremist activity.
The area serves as a haven for armed groups affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda.
These groups have been responsible for numerous attacks on civilians and military personnel in recent years, including the deadly assault on Kokorou on June 25th that claimed the lives of 20 soldiers.
