Niger’s military government has accused Chad of carrying out a deadly drone strike in northern Niger, alleging that the attack killed two civilians and wounded others amid worsening relations between the neighboring countries. In a statement broadcast on national television on Monday, Niger said the strike occurred early Saturday at Salvador Pass, in the mountainous Emi Lulu area near the borders with Algeria and Libya. The government said it had summoned Chad’s ambassador to protest the incident and demanded an immediate halt to what it described as “hostile actions”, alongside compensation for the damage. The remote area is known for its mineral resources and strategic location along routes used for smuggling and militant activity, making it a sensitive security zone.
Niamey described the alleged attack as an act of aggression and a violation of its sovereignty. It further accused Chad of supporting mercenaries and targeting civilians and strategic infrastructure. Niger also alleged that France supported the operation, but provided no independently verified evidence in the statement to substantiate the claim. The government said it planned to refer the matter to the United Nations Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council. It also called for an independent international investigation and urged its international partners to show solidarity.
The accusations come amid growing tensions between Niger and Chad. In September, Niger accused Chad of involvement in an alleged failed mutiny, claiming that France was backing efforts to destabilize its military-led government. The latest allegations could further strain relations between the two countries. However, the claims of Chadian responsibility and French involvement have not been independently established, and no response from Chad was included in the statement.
