2 Indians Killed, Another Kidnapped in Niger Attack; India Urges Safe Release

Two Indian nationals were shot dead and another kidnapped during a violent attack in the Dosso region of Niger, located about 140 kilometres from the capital city Niamey. The Indian Embassy in Niger confirmed on Friday, through a statement on X (formerly Twitter), that the attack occurred on Tuesday.

Victims Were Working at the Construction Site

According to local media, all three victims were working at a construction site when the gunmen attacked. Although the Indian government has not officially named the victims, steps are being taken to bring the bodies home and ensure the safe rescue of the kidnapped person.

Growing Threat to Foreigners in Niger

"Armed groups in Niger are increasingly targeting foreigners. This year alone, several incidents have taken place, including the abduction of: An Austrian aid worker, who had been living in Niger for more than 20 years, was abducted by armed groups.

Five Indian workers, also abducted in April

These attacks show a troubling trend of violence against foreigners, especially in remote and vulnerable areas.

Niger's Security Situation Worsens

Niger has long faced militant threats from jihadi groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State (IS). The security situation has deteriorated further after the military coup in July 2023, which removed the democratic government. Data from the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED) shows that June 2025 was among the deadliest months in Niger's recent history, with over 100 civilians killed in coordinated attacks by Islamic State-backed militants in the Tillaberi and Dosso regions.