LSN News › World News

Politics · World News Bureau

Niger arrests dozens of soldiers in apparent coup bid

Nigerien authorities have detained multiple military personnel following what officials characterized as an attempted coup in the capital Niamey. The incident marks the latest in a series of political upheavals affecting the West African nation.

LSN World News · 30 August 2026

Niger arrests dozens of soldiers in apparent coup bid

Security forces in Niger arrested dozens of soldiers on suspicion of involvement in an apparent coup attempt targeting the government in Niamey, according to officials. The detentions came after military personnel allegedly moved to seize control of key government installations, though the effort was contained by authorities loyal to the existing administration.

Details surrounding the alleged plot remained limited, with officials providing few specifics about the scope of the operation or the identities of those detained. The incident underscores ongoing tensions within Niger's military establishment and the fragility of the country's political institutions.

Niger has experienced considerable instability in recent years, with multiple changes in leadership and recurring questions about the strength of civilian governance. The arrest of the military personnel signals that authorities are moving to consolidate control and prevent further destabilization attempts.