35 reportedly dead as violence hits Niger in three separate incidents

At least 35 people were reportedly killed in three separate incidents across Niger’s Dosso and Tillabéri regions between September 17 and 23, 2026.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the reported casualties included civilians and members of Niger’s security forces, with the incidents recorded in Karakara and Yeldou in Dosso, and Abala in Tillabéri.

On September 17, 12 civilians were reportedly killed in Karakara Commune, Dioundiou Department, Dosso Region.

The reports said Nigerien security forces arrived in the area after an attack by armed groups and accused some residents of assisting the attackers.

A local resident, whose identity was withheld, reportedly told the source that the security forces accused villagers of collaborating with armed groups.

Another attack occurred late on September 22 in Yeldou, Kra-Kra Commune, Dosso Region.

According to the report, armed men attacked the community at about 11:30pm, killing eight people and injuring several others.

On September 23, a GARSI patrol of Niger’s Gendarmerie Special Forces was reportedly attacked in Abala Department, Tillabéri Region.

The report put the death toll among the gendarmes at 15, including Captain Hassoumi and Adjudant Djingarey, and attributed the attack to the Islamic State in the Sahel.

“The provisional balance is 15 gendarmes who fell on the battlefield, including Captain Hassoumi and Adjudant Djingarey,” the report stated.

The three incidents bring the reported death toll to 35, although the figures remain provisional.