Gunmen attacked a village in western Niger over the weekend, leaving at least 31 people dead, student organizations and a resident said Tuesday.
The attack took place Sunday in the commune of Gorouol in the Tillabéri region, according to a joint statement from the Union of Students Originating from the Commune of Gorouol, the Union of Nigerien Students, and other student organizations.
Several militant groups that target both civilians and the military operate in Niger, including an Islamic State group affiliate.
The Nigerien military government came to power in 2023 after deposing the country’s democratically elected government, promising to curb the violence. However, data shows the attacks have increased, a trend also seen in Mali and Burkina Faso, where the military seized power in coups.
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Gunmen Kill 31 Villagers in Western Niger, Student Groups and a Resident Say
01/20/2026
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