Niger's military government has accused Chad of carrying out a drone strike that killed two civilians and wounded others. It called the attack an "act of aggression" and a "violation" of Niger's sovereignty.
According to a statement read on national television on Monday 26 October, the strike hit the Salvador Pass early on Saturday 24 October, in the Emi Lulu area of northern Niger. The pass lies in a remote mining region near the Algerian and Libyan borders and is described as a key route for smuggling and militant activity.
What Niger says
Niger said it had summoned the Chadian ambassador. It demanded an immediate end to what it called "hostile actions" and compensation for the damage.
The statement accused Chad of supporting mercenaries and of targeting civilians and strategic infrastructure. It also said the attack was carried out "with the support" of France.
Niger said it would refer the matter to the UN Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council, and that it wants an independent international investigation.
Background
In September, Niger accused Chad of involvement in a foiled mutiny, alleging that France backed efforts to destabilise the military government. Niger has also severed ties with France, its former colonial ruler, and relations between Niamey and N'Djamena were already worsening.
