Niger Launches Investigation After Attack on Tahoua Air Base

West Africa WeeklyMarch 12, 20261 Mins read338

Authorities in Niger say investigations are ongoing following an attack on Air Base 401 located at the airport in Tahoua.

The assault occurred during the night of March 8 to March 9 when armed attackers riding motorcycles attempted to strike the military installation. According to regional officials, the attack triggered a confrontation that lasted about 30 minutes.

The governor of the Tahoua region, Colonel Major Souleymane Amadou Moussa, said several attackers were neutralized during the clash with the country’s Defense and Security Forces.

Five suspected accomplices have also been arrested following information provided by residents in nearby communities. Authorities said local vigilance played a key role in identifying individuals believed to have assisted the attackers.

Security forces have since launched aerial search operations to track down suspects who fled the scene after the assault.

Officials said the attackers managed to cause limited damage to some hangars used to house drones, but no military casualties were reported. Investigators found spent bullet casings and visible bullet impacts around the base, evidence of the intensity of the fighting.

The Ministry of Defense praised residents for what it described as their patriotism and cooperation with security forces during the operation.

Following the incident, security has been significantly reinforced around the air base and surrounding areas as authorities work to prevent further attacks.

Government officials say the investigation is being carried out in coordination with international partners as efforts continue to identify those responsible and strengthen measures against militant threats in the region.