Summary
Nearly 130 people were killed in Niger by Islamist insurgents, according to a report from Human Rights Watch. These attacks happened between March and June and include a mass shooting at a mosque. The report highlights the challenges faced by Niger's military leadership in controlling the jihadist violence.
Key Facts
- Islamist insurgents killed around 130 people in Niger since March, according to Human Rights Watch.
- A mass shooting occurred at a mosque in the Tillabéri region in June, killing over 70 people.
- Jihadist groups also destroyed schools and religious sites and imposed severe restrictions on people.
- Since the coup in Niger in 2023, approximately 1,600 civilians have died in attacks by Islamic State fighters.
- The Niger military leadership promised to curb the insurgency after taking power but faces challenges.
- The Tillabéri region, bordering Burkina Faso and Mali, has been a focal point of the insurgency for years.
- Niger and its neighboring countries have formed an alliance to combat jihadist insurgents.
- Islamist insurgents in Niger are identified by red-banded turbans, reportedly worn by Islamic State fighters.
