Niger's army seizes weapons after quelling mutiny

Niger's Defense and Security Forces seized a large cache of weapons and military equipment after quelling a mutiny at Base 101 in Niamey, local media reported Wednesday, September 2.

A total of 34 Toyota pickup trucks equipped with mounted weapons, two light armored vehicles, and dozens of motorcycles, weapons and accessories, among other items, were recovered, Niger's national television reported.

Niger's Forces vives de la Nation, a grouping representing various sectors of society, organized a rally Wednesday at the Place de la Concertation in Niamey.

The rally was attended by members of the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland, government officials, and thousands of residents. Organizers said the event was intended to express support for the national authorities and reaffirm their commitment to Niger's sovereignty and national refoundation.

The Nigerien Defense Ministry announced Saturday that it had foiled an attempted mutiny involving a group of soldiers at Air Base 101 in Niamey.

According to a ministry statement, a group of soldiers "who had broken with military discipline and regulations" attempted to detain some of their fellow soldiers at the base and opened fire at several sensitive sites in the capital. The swift response of the defense and security forces brought the situation under control and enabled them to secure the sites concerned.