Soldiers’ mutiny rocks Niger capital, but junta says back in control

Clashes erupted in Niger’s capital on Saturday between the presidential guard and elements of the armed forces, after a night of heavy gunfire in parts of the city.

Niger has been ruled for three years by a military junta that has struggled to contain jihadist violence, which has blighted the west African country for around a decade.

“There was an attempt by insurgents from the Nigerien armed forces to enter the presidential palace,” a security source said.

“They were pushed back by the presidential guard. Exchanges of gunfire are continuing at the palace.”

An African diplomat in Niamey said that for now the presidential guard was still loyal to ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani.

The military said it was “gradually regaining control” after the mutineers took soldiers hostage at a base next to the capital’s airport.