In a deadly ambush near Niger’s border with Mali, 34 soldiers were killed on Thursday, June 19, 2025, in Banibangou. The Nigerien Defense Ministry confirmed the assault, which also left 14 soldiers wounded.

The attackers, described as mercenaries, launched the assault with eight vehicles and over 200 motorcycles, underscoring the scale and coordination of the operation.

In response, Niger’s military claims to have neutralized dozens of the assailants during the fierce exchange. Search operations by land and air are currently underway to track down the remaining attackers.

The incident highlights the persistent insecurity along Niger’s western frontier, plagued by extremist violence.