Niamey, Niger—Gunmen breached the perimeter of Diori Hamani International Airport on Thursday, triggering an intense firefight. Eleven soldiers died defending the strategic facility. Two civilians were also killed during the crossfire. The assault ended only after security forces neutralized twenty-two of the attackers.

The raid began in the early morning hours. Explosions echoed across the tarmac as militants bypassed security checkpoints. Soldiers stationed at the nearby airbase rushed to return fire.

The airport serves as a critical hub for regional military operations. Authorities state that twenty suspects are currently in custody. Investigators found weapons and stockpiles of ammunition at the scene.

Witnesses reported hearing bursts of gunfire for over an hour. Soldiers sealed off the main access roads to the terminal. The surrounding area remains under a heavy security lockdown.

Government officials claimed to have foiled the attempt to seize the facility. They provided no immediate details on the identities of the shooters. Analysts note the attack fits a pattern of regional instability.

Daily operations at the airport resumed by Friday. However, the heavy presence of military personnel persists. Citizens continue to face searches along the road to the terminal.

This marks the second major security failure at the airport this year. Previous incidents involved drone assets and regional air force infrastructure. Tensions remain high among the local population.

Regional allies are monitoring the situation closely. Border security remains a primary concern for the military government. No group has yet claimed formal responsibility for the breach.

The military continues to conduct sweeps in neighborhoods near the capital. Intelligence units are questioning the suspects detained after the firefight. The situation stays fragile as soldiers remain on high alert.