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[INTERNATIONAL] · Niger · 7 sources

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MPLJ rebels claim 15 Nigerien soldiers killed in northern attacks

The Patriotic Movement for Liberty and Justice (MPLJ) has claimed responsibility for a series of attacks against Nigerien security forces in the Seguidine oasis, located in the extreme northeast of the country near the Libyan border.

According to the MPLJ, the attacks, which occurred on Friday morning, resulted in at least 15 deaths and seven injuries among the defense and security forces. The group reported that they targeted a National Guard camp and a mixed security post comprising police, gendarmerie, and customs officials. The rebels claim to have seized a large quantity of weapons, ammunition, and vehicles during the clashes.

Security sources indicated that soldiers were reportedly caught by surprise during the early morning hours. Witnesses in the Bilma region reported seeing parts of a military camp and vehicles being set on fire. The attackers were observed fleeing toward the Djado Mountains in the Kawar region following the incident.

The MPLJ, led by Moussa Kounaï, is a Tuareg rebel group that advocates for the release of former President Mohamed Bazoum, who was ousted in a July 2023 military coup. As of Sunday afternoon, Nigerien authorities had not released an official statement regarding the casualties or the extent of the damage.

Entities

Bilma · MPLJ · Mohamed Bazoum · Moussa Kounaï · Niger · Patriotic Movement for Liberty and Justice · Seguidine

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