Suspected fighters of the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) on Thursday overran the Boni military camp in Niger’s Torodi Department, close to the Burkina Faso border, raising fresh concerns over the region’s growing insecurity.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the attack occurred at about noon, with the militants swiftly taking full control of the base, which was previously occupied by elements of the Special

Intervention Battalion (BSI 95) and the Intervention and Security Group (GIS) of the Niger National Guard.

The military command in Niamey deployed a Burkinabe Air Force reconnaissance helicopter to survey the situation, but the aircraft reportedly came under heavy fire, forcing it to retreat.

At the time of filing this report, the number of casualties remains unknown, and there has been no official communication on the fate of the troops stationed at the camp. Sources expressed fears that the death toll could exceed that of a previous attack on the base a year ago, which claimed 50 lives and resulted in the abduction of six soldiers who were later released after a ransom payment.

Boni is a strategic security outpost that served as a buffer between jihadist elements in Burkina Faso and southwestern Niger. Under the administration of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, the camp was equipped with a permanently stationed combat helicopter due to its vulnerability to cross-border insurgent attacks.

However, following the July 26, 2023 coup that brought General Abdourahamane Tiani to power, the air asset was withdrawn to Niamey, reportedly to protect the junta leadership. (Zagazola)