By Rachel Akper

Seven soldiers of the Nigerien Defence and Security Forces (FDS) have been killed following a deadly ambush by suspected fighters of the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (EIGS) in western Niger.

The attack occurred on Tuesday, March 24, in the Sanam area of Abala Department, located in the volatile Tillabéri Region, according to security sources.

Sources disclosed that heavily armed assailants stormed Wanni village at about 9:00 a.m., rustling livestock before fleeing the area. In response, troops of the FDS launched a pursuit operation to track down the attackers.

However, the soldiers reportedly ran into an ambush during the chase, leading to the deaths of seven personnel. Two others sustained serious injuries and were evacuated to the capital, Niamey, for urgent medical attention.

Security sources further revealed that one military vehicle, along with its crew, remains missing as of the time of filing this report.

The Tillabéri Region has continued to experience persistent extremist violence, largely attributed to armed groups linked to EIGS. The region remains one of the most dangerous zones in Niger, with frequent clashes between security forces and insurgent elements.