Niamey: Niger’s defense minister has announced that a military mutiny in the capital has been brought under control. The situation arose when rebels took soldiers hostage at a military base near Niamey airport and targeted sensitive sites in the capital.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the ruling military council stated on Saturday that they were gradually regaining control over the situation. Heavy gunfire had been reported overnight in several neighborhoods, notably around the presidential palace and the international airport.

In a statement broadcast on state television, Defense Minister General Salifou Mody urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities. The unrest comes after a military coup in July 2023, where Abdourahmane Ti©ani led the overthrow of elected president Mohamed Bazoum.