Armed attackers have killed at least 16 civilians in an ambush on a convoy in western Niger, underscoring persistent insecurity along the country’s volatile border with Mali.
The attack occurred in the Banibangou district of the Tillabéri region on Sunday, March 29, where suspected extremist groups linked to Al-Qaeda are known to operate.
According to local sources, gunmen intercepted five trucks travelling from Niamey to a weekly market, executing 16 men while sparing women.
Several victims were reportedly traders, with the attackers also looting goods, stealing three vehicles and setting another ablaze. The assault took place in a remote desert area near the Malian border. The incident follows a period of relative calm in the region, which had previously witnessed a wave of attacks between 2021 and 2023 targeting civilians in villages, markets and along transit routes.
Authorities recently announced plans to establish civilian auxiliaries to support national security forces in combating armed groups. Despite official assurances of improved stability, Niger continues to face threats from insurgent groups, including Boko Haram in its southeastern corridor.