Gunmen kill 2 Indians and abduct a third in Niger’s Dosso region

In a recent attack in Niger’s southwest Dosso region, gunmen killed two Indian nationals and abducted a third. The Indian Embassy in Niamey confirmed the incident, stating that the attack occurred on July 15, 2025, and that they are coordinating with local authorities to repatriate the bodies of the deceased and secure the release of the kidnapped individual.

The victims were identified as workers at a construction site located approximately 140 kilometers from Niamey. This incident is part of a troubling trend of increasing violence targeting foreigners in Niger. Earlier this year, an Austrian aid worker with over 20 years in the country was kidnapped, and in April, a Swiss woman was seized from her home. Additionally, five Indian workers were abducted in April.

Niger has been grappling with a jihadist insurgency linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group for several years. The security situation has deteriorated since the military coup in July 2023, leading to increased attacks in regions like Tillaberi and Dosso. In June 2025, the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project reported over 100 civilian deaths due to IS-backed offensives, marking a significant escalation in violence.

The Indian Embassy has urged all Indian nationals in Niger to remain vigilant and has expressed condolences to the families of the victims. The embassy is actively working with local authorities to ensure the safe release of the abducted individual and to repatriate the bodies of those killed.

The Dosso region, bordering both Nigeria and Benin, has been a hotspot for such attacks. Local sources suggest that armed attackers ambushed a Nigerien army unit providing security at a construction site for an electrical line in the area. The Indian Embassy is in contact with the employer and families of the victims, as well as the Nigerian government, to facilitate the repatriation of the deceased and the safe release of the abducted individual.

This incident underscores the escalating security challenges in Niger, particularly concerning the safety of foreign nationals working in the country. The Indian government continues to monitor the situation closely and is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.