Niger Republic declares curfew as ‘terrorists, jihadists’ escape from prison

Niger Republic authorities have imposed a curfew in the Tillaberi region after several terrorists and jihadists escaped from the Koutoukalé prison on Thursday.

The Koutoukalé prison is located near Niger’s capital city of Niamey.

Gunshots and explosions rang inside the walls of the prison before the jail break.

Zagazola Makama, a publication focused on the Lake Chad region, reported eyewitnesses as saying that the incident occurred around midday.

The prisoners reportedly overwhelmed the security forces despite the prompt response.

“The escape has raised serious questions about the security of the prison, which has previously thwarted two jihadist attempts to free comrades,” Makama said.

“An investigation is underway to determine how the inmates were able to procure weapons and overpower their guards.

“The interior minister has issued a radio message to all governors, confirming the escape and urging village chiefs and religious leaders to report any suspicious individuals.

“The escape is considered a major security breach, and authorities are working to recapture the fleeing inmates.

“The public has been warned to be vigilant and report any information that could aid in the recapture of the escaped prisoners.”

Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso — all under military rule — have been battling a spate of jihadist attacks.

The BBC reports that on Monday, at least 14 soldiers were killed and 11 others wounded in an attack by suspected jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda in the Tillaberi region.

The troops were ambushed between the villages of Ila Fari and Djangore with 24 soldiers still reported missing.