The Niger government said a group of soldiers had attempted to stage a mutiny and that the situation was now under control after sustained gunfire and explosions were heard overnight into Saturday in Niamey, the capital of the West African country.

Residents of Niger's capital Niamey on Saturday reported hearing gunfire near a military base at the international airport, which has been attacked by jihadists twice this year.

Niger's defence ministry says armed forces retaking control of sites targeted in overnight attack.

Government official says 'terrorists' attacked major military installation in Niamey

Gunfire and explosions erupted across Niger's capital on Saturday morning. Mutinous soldiers reportedly attacked the airport and areas near the presidency. State television and…

Attack marks the latest threat to the rule of Abdourahamane Tiani