At least 44 civilians were killed and 13 others injured in an attack on a mosque in southwestern Niger on Friday.
The assault took place in the village of Fonbita, located in the Kokorou commune, when militants, believed to be from the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), stormed the mosque during prayers.
Among the injured, four are in critical condition, according to Interior Minister Mohamed Toumba.
The attack has been condemned as a “cowardly and inhumane act” by the government, which has vowed to enhance efforts to combat terrorism in the region.
Niger’s authorities have declared 72 hours of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across the country. Public events will be subdued as the nation grieves the tragic loss.
The southwestern region, particularly near the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso, has faced escalating violence in recent years.
ISGS, which has been active in the region, is thought to be behind the assault. Despite ongoing security efforts, extremism continues to pose a severe threat to local communities.
A thorough investigation has been promised by the authorities, who are determined to bring those responsible for the attack to justice.
