Strong security measures have been introduced in Niger following the escape of prisoners from a prison, including jihadists.
The measures include a curfew.
In a radio statement broadcast on Thursday 11 July, Niger’s Minister of the Interior, Public Security and Territorial Administration, General Mohamed Toumba, announced the escape of prisoners from the Koutoukale prison, where jihadists from various groups operating in West Africa are being held.
According to several security sources, the prisoners took control of the high-security penitentiary located some
fifty kilometres north-west of Niamey before escaping. The escape, which occurred on the same day, immediately led to a series of reinforced security measures.
Minister Toumba ordered the governor of Tillaberi to “put all search units on alert and redouble vigilance throughout the security system.”
He also demanded the involvement of traditional chiefs and religious leaders to participate actively in the search for the fugitives. He also called for the local population to be made aware of the situation and to report any suspicious individuals.
In response to this message, Ousseini Amadou Oumarou, the delegate administrator of the urban commune of Tillaberi, introduced a curfew.
The curfew comes into force on Thursday 11 July, from 9pm to dawn, throughout the commune, banning pedestrians, two-wheelers and vehicles.
Koutoukale prison has already been the scene of several serious incidents. In 2016, it was attacked by the Islamic State in the Great Sahara. More recently, in May 2019, jihadists attempted an assault on the penitentiary. Although they did not succeed in freeing the detainees, around twenty members of the national guard lost their
lives the following day in Baley Beri, during a pursuit by the attackers.
Since 26 July 2023, Niger has been ruled by a military government that overthrew the elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, accusing him of failing to secure the country.
AC/Sf/fss/as/APA