The arrest of Nigerien rebel leader Mahmoud Sallah in Libyan territory raises questions about cross-border security in the Sahel region and could mark a turning point in the political crisis in Niger.
Further details have emerged regarding the reasons for the arrest of Mahmoud Sallah, leader of the Patriotic Liberation Front (PLF). Sallah was apprehended on Sunday, February 23, during an operation by the
87th Rapid Intervention Brigade of the Libyan army in the Qatrun (Gatrone) region of southern Libya.
While the PLF presents itself as a militant movement for the return to constitutional order in Niger, Libyan and Nigerien authorities consider the organisation to be conducting cross-border armed operations.
According to the 87th Brigade, Sallah is accused of orchestrating recent kidnappings attributed to PLF members and involvement in criminal activities between Libya and Niger.
Sallah is alleged to have made threats against oil installations in the Agadez region of northeastern Niger, as well as against public infrastructure and foreign businesses.
These actions are believed to be aimed at destabilizing the regime in Niamey, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani since the July 2023 coup.
Sallah has been transferred to Libyan authorities for questioning. The investigation focuses on the structure of the PLF, its financing and possible connections with other armed groups in the Sahel.
This arrest is part of enhanced security cooperation between Libya and Niger, formalised in September 2024 during the visit of General Mohamed al-Haddad, Libyan Chief of Staff, to Niamey.
AC/sf/lb/gik/APA