A classified internal military communication marked “Secret Defense” has confirmed significant losses of equipment following an attack on a Nigerien Gendarmerie Nationale (GNN) position in Kirtachi, in the Tillabéri Region in Niger Republic.
The internal radio message, dated May 22, 2026, indicated that the attack was carried out by suspected fighters of the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), during which several military assets were reportedly seized.
According to the document, the attackers made away with three armed Toyota pickup vehicles. One of the vehicles was said to be mounted with a 12.7mm heavy machine gun, while the remaining two were fitted with M80-type weapons.
The report further stated that seven motorcycles, locally referred to as “Sababu,” were also taken, alongside GNN uniforms and related operational gear.
Preliminary figures contained in the same communication put the casualty toll at 12 security and defence force personnel killed, while four others were reported missing following the incident.
The document also reportedly urged heightened alertness across operational positions in the region, warning of possible further attacks ahead of the upcoming Tabaski celebrations.
Security sources have not yet issued an official public statement confirming the details contained in the leaked communication.
By: Zagazola Makama
