Niger declared three days of national mourning starting today, March 22nd, following a deadly terrorist attack in the Tillaberi region.
On the night of March 20th-21st, an army patrol came under ambush by over 100 terrorists using vehicles and motorcycles. The attack occurred during a search operation between the towns of Teguey and Bankilare.
At least 23 soldiers were killed and 17 wounded. Military estimates suggest around 30 terrorists were neutralized. Several reliable sources attribute the attack to the Islamic State in the Greater Sahel (EIGS) terrorist group.
The government has declared a 72-hour mourning period to honor the fallen soldiers. A ceremony to receive the bodies and hold funerals will be held today in Niamey, the capital. Niger remains vigilant in the face of ongoing terrorist threats. This attack highlights the dangers faced by its security forces and the ongoing struggle for peace in the region.