Twenty-two attackers were killed in Niger and around 20 suspects arrested following an assault on Thursday against the Niamey International Airport, according to a provisional toll released by the defence ministry.

Authorities reported that 11 members of the defence and security forces were killed, along with two civilians.

Four people were injured during the attack.

The report said a military operation was ongoing, while affirming that the airport was “completely secured” and remained open to air traffic.

Authorities said the attackers attempted to enter the terminal in the early hours of the morning.

Gunfire and explosions were heard around the facility for several minutes.

Security forces said they seized military equipment, including automatic weapons, RPG-7 rocket launchers, grenades, and ammunition.

Two taxis and a van were also reportedly used by the attackers, according to the ministry.

The identities of the perpetrators have not been disclosed.

However, in a brief statement, Al Qaeda-linked JNIM said it had carried out "a suicide attack" on Diori Hamani international airport and on a neighbouring military base. 

The Niamey International Airport and an adjacent military base had been targeted in late January in an attack claimed by the Daesh terrorist group.

In March, the air base within the airport compound in Tahoua was also attacked by armed men before being retaken by security forces.

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