Sustained gunfire and explosions were reported across several parts of Niamey, the capital of Niger Republic, early Saturday, with Diori Hamani International Airport emerging as a major target.

The airport, located about 10 kilometres from the presidential palace, also houses a major air force base.

The attack marked the third assault on the city this year, as tensions continued under the military government that came to power following the 2023 coup.

A member of Niger’s Bureau of the Consultative Council and deputy in the Alliance of Sahel States Parliament, Bana Wagana Ibrahim, confirmed the incident, saying the attack on Base 101 had been brought under control.

A security source said terrorists attacked the airport and attempted to breach the security perimeter around the presidential palace.

The latest incident occurred barely two months after gunmen attacked the airport in June, killing 11 security personnel and two civilians. Twenty-two attackers were also killed during the incident.

The Islamic State had previously claimed responsibility for an attack on the airport in January.

General Abdourahamane Tchiani has remained in power since the July 2023 coup that ousted former President Mohamed Bazoum.