Gunmen kill 12 in Niger bus attack
An armed group attacked two buses carrying gold, killing passengers and injuring several others on the Arlit-Agadez road.
12 people, including women and children, were killed and several others injured in an armed attack on two SONITRAV buses on the Arlit-Agadez road on October 20, 2026. The governor of Agadez region, General Ibra Boulama Issa, visited the injured at the regional hospital and expressed condolences to the families of the deceased. Some of the seriously wounded were transferred to the CHR for better medical care after initial stabilization at the SONICHAR hospital in Tchirozérine.
The attack is believed to be linked to the transport of gold on board one of the buses. Governor Issa stated that the perpetrators of the criminal acts should be sought, prosecuted, and brought before the competent courts. He emphasized the need for discussions with transport company officials to establish secure transport mechanisms, in line with regulations, to prevent further endangerment of lives.
The governor conveyed the deep compassion of the state's highest authorities and the government to the victims and their families. He reaffirmed solidarity with the injured and wished them a speedy recovery. Assurances were given that necessary measures would be taken for the respectful and appropriate burial of the deceased.
Why it mattersPassengers on buses transporting gold were killed and injured in an armed attack.