UN Condemns the attack
Two deadly suicide bombings in Niger have killed about 30 people, including 24 soldiers and at least six jihadists.
Reports say suicide bombers simultaneously drove vehicles full of explosives into a military base in the town of Agadez and a French uranium at Arlit.
One civilian was reportedly killed in the attack on the mine. A troop of French special forces responded to the call and helped Niger’s military kill two surviving militants in a firefight.
The attacks were launched during morning prayer and both the military installation and the mine were off guard. The jihadist group locally known as Mujao claimed responsibility.
The attacks were recorded to be the first terrorist attacks in Niger. The West African country has positioned itself in the front lines against terrorism in West Africa.
The United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, deplored the attack, and the Security Council condemned it “in the strongest terms,” saying the perpetrators must be brought to justice.
US Condemns the attack
Acting Deputy Spokesperson Patrick Ventrell has issued statement in Washington DC, saying the United States condemns in the strongest terms the vicious terrorist attacks on a Nigerien army facility in Agadez and a uranium mining facility, operated by a French company, in Arlit on May 23.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims.” – Mr. Ventrell
The US government also expresses its condolences to the Nigerien people and their government, who have stood steadfast in rejecting violent extremism.
Mr Ventrell says the attacks targeted two of US key partners in the Sahel – Niger and France.
The US commends both nations for their leadership within international efforts to combat terrorism and reaffirm unwavering commitment to improving the security of the Sahel region and its people
Niger is a landlocked, impoverished nation of 17 million located in Western Africa.
