By ZAGAZOLA MAKAMA

Six personnel of the Nigerien Defense and Security Forces (FDS) were killed on Thursday following a violent ambush by suspected elements of the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (EIGS) in the Tanda area of Gaya Department, Dosso Region, southern Niger.

The attack occurred on May 23 while the unit was conducting a patrol to secure the Niger-Benin oil pipeline corridor, a strategic route increasingly targeted by armed groups operating in the region.

According to a preliminary report, the ambush resulted in the deaths of six FDS operatives and the destruction of a military vehicle. One of the fallen personnel has been visually identified from images circulating on social media. The Nigerien authorities are yet to release an official statement on the attack.

Meanwhile, security reinforcements have reportedly been deployed to the area as part of efforts to stabilize the region and secure critical assets.

The Niger-Benin pipeline, a vital project for the Republic of Niger?s economic ambitions, has become a point for attacks. (Zagazola)