Terrorists Kill Two Indians, Kidnap One In Dosso Region Of Niger

In a recent attack in Niger, armed assailants killed two Indian nationals and abducted a third, as confirmed by Indian government officials. This incident occurred in the Dosso region in the southwestern part of the country, an area that has seen increasing violence in recent years.

According to a statement from the Indian Embassy in Niger posted on social media platform X, the attack took place on Tuesday. The embassy has engaged with local authorities to facilitate the repatriation of the deceased and ensure the release of the abducted individual.

"In a heinous terror attack on 15 July in Niger's Dosso region, two Indian nationals tragically lost their lives and one was abducted. Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families," the embassy remarked, advising all Indian citizens in Niger to exercise heightened vigilance in light of the incident.

The targeting of foreigners by armed groups in Niger has become more prevalent, making this incident the latest in a string of attacks against expatriates in the country. Earlier this year, other foreigners have also been kidnapped, including an Austrian aid worker who had lived in Niger for over two decades, a Swiss woman abducted from her home in April, and five Indian workers who were seized around the same time.

The security situation in Niger has deteriorated significantly following the military coup that ousted the elected government in July 2023. This upheaval has exacerbated ongoing challenges, including a persistent jihadi insurgency associated with both al-Qaida and the Islamic State.

The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project reported that June 2023 was one of the deadliest months on record in Niger, as Islamic State-affiliated fighters launched a large-scale offensive across the Tillaberi and Dosso regions, leading to the deaths of more than 100 civilians. These attacks have marked a disturbing resurgence of mass violence in rural areas of Niger.

As the situation unfolds, the Indian Embassy in Niger continues to monitor developments and is working to enhance the safety and security of its citizens in the region. Authorities urge Indian nationals to stay aware of their surroundings and follow local guidance to mitigate risks associated with the escalating violence.