This Thursday, early in the morning, heavy gunfire and loud detonations were heard near Diori Hamani International Airport (AIDH) in Niamey, the capital of Niger.
Uranium stored at the airport?
The near-airport incident comes at a crucial time for Niger's economy. A large stock of uranium is currently present at the airport, awaiting transit, which could have aroused desire. It is one of the main riches of Niger.
In addition, the airport is located about ten kilometers from the presidential palace, which confirms its strategic position in the capital. It houses an air base, a drone center and the headquarters of the ESA joint force.
Since the July 2023 coup, which led to the fall of the regime of democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum, Niger has been led by General Abdourahamane Tiani. The country, like its other allies in the AES (Alliance of Sahel States), is plagued by intensifying Islamist attacks.
For the moment, the government has not communicated on the situation.
