Heavy gunfire and loud explosions were reported in the early hours of Thursday near the international airport in Niamey, the capital of the Republic of Niger.
Residents living in neighbourhoods close to the airport said the shooting began shortly after midnight and lasted for about two hours, before calm returned.
The cause of the gunfire was not immediately clear, and there was no official confirmation of casualties.
Videos shared by residents on social media appeared to show streaks of light across the night sky accompanied by the sound of explosions. Other footage showed flames rising several metres high and vehicles that appeared to have been badly damaged.
Niamey’s Diori Hamani International Airport, which houses an air force base, is located approximately 10 kilometres from the presidential palace.
Authorities have yet to comment on the incident.
About The Author
