News
Panic as terrorists group, ambush soldiers, capture sophisticated weapons
The extremist armed group Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists have carried out an ambush against the Nigerien Army in Tillabéri.
The ambush was a shocking development in the ongoing conflict between terrorists and Niger military.
The aftermath of the attack has also revealed some disturbing details about the sophisticated weapons that the militants were able to capture and destroy.
One of the most striking pieces of equipment that fell into the hands of the terrorists was a South Africa-made OTT Technologies’ Puma M36 MK5 MRAP.
The heavily armoured vehicle, originally donated by the United States, was a crucial asset for the Nigerien Army in their fight against terrorism, the report indicated.
“Its loss represents a significant blow to the military capabilities of the country and raises concerns about the security situation in the region.”
In addition to the MRAP, the terrorists also “seized a rare Singapore-made STK/CIS 40 AGL auto grenade launcher. This weapon is known for its high accuracy and devastating firepower, making it a prized possession for any armed group. The fact that ISIS was able to capture such a sophisticated piece of equipment is a troubling sign of their growing strength and influence in the region.
“They also acquired a cache of 107mm Chinese Type 63-2 HE rockets, as well as KPV and Type 85 heavy machine guns. These weapons are highly destructive and capable of causing widespread damage, posing a serious threat to the security and stability of the region.
“The presence of such advanced weaponry in the hands of ISIS militants is a cause for concern and underscores the need for increased international support to combat the growing terrorist threat in Niger.
“In addition to the heavy weaponry, the militants also seized a number of AKM/Type 56 assault rifles. These rifles are commonly used by insurgent groups around the world and are known for their reliability and effectiveness in combat.”
According to the Family Writers Press International, for the fact that ISIS was able to acquire a significant number of these rifles further highlights their ability to outgun and outmaneuver the Nigerien Army.
“The implications of this ambush are clear – ISIS is gaining ground and becoming more emboldened in their attacks on Nigerien security forces. The sophisticated weaponry that they have been able to capture demonstrates their growing capabilities and poses a serious threat to the stability of the region.
“The international community must step up its support for Niger in order to prevent further escalation of the conflict and to ensure the security of the country and its people.
“The ambush in Tillabéri and the subsequent capture of advanced weaponry by ISIS militants is a troubling development that highlights the growing threat of terrorism in Niger. The loss of the MRAP and other sophisticated weapons is a significant setback for the Nigerien Army and underscores the need for increased support from the international community.
“It is crucial that the government of Niger and its allies take decisive action to combat ISIS and prevent further attacks on innocent civilians and security forces. Failure to do so could have dire consequences for the stability and security of the region.”
Iran has carried out the execution of two individuals accused of collaborating with Israeli intelligence, according to an official statement from the country’s judiciary.
Authorities said the two men were convicted on charges of espionage linked to Mossad, and were found guilty of working with what officials described as a hostile intelligence network operating within Iran.
According to the judiciary, the suspects had been under investigation for activities considered detrimental to national security.
Their death sentences were subsequently upheld by the country’s Supreme Court prior to being enforced.
The executions were confirmed on April 20, 2026, although officials did not provide specific details regarding the exact time or location.
Iranian authorities stated that the case is part of ongoing efforts to counter and dismantle foreign intelligence operations within its borders.
There has been no independent confirmation of the allegations, and Israeli authorities have not issued any immediate response.
The incident reflects the persistent strain in relations between the two countries, with Iran frequently reporting the uncovering of alleged espionage networks tied to Israeli operatives.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new campus of the Police Academy in Erinja, Yewa South Local Government Area in Ogun State.
President Tinubu also approved a special take-off grant of N15billion for the college.
The President’s approval was in fulfilment of the provisions of the Nigeria Police Academy (Establishment) Act, 2021, particularly with respect to the expansion of the Police Academy based in Wudil, Kano state, into multiple campuses across the country.
The intervention fund will be sourced from the TetFund 2026 allocation to finance priority infrastructure, academic facilities, student accommodation, and core training assets.
A high-level consultative meeting involving the Minister of Police Affairs, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, officials of the Federal Ministry of Education, the Inspector-General of Police and the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) recommended the siting of the new campus in Erinja.
The meeting considered student intake capacity, funding realities, academic quality assurance, and the long-term needs of the Nigerian Police Force, which is currently recruiting more men.
President Tinubu believes the expansion will strengthen institutional governance, modern policing education and national security.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), South West Zone, has disowned a press conference purportedly held in Ibadan on Monday, which claimed that the zone had condemned the former governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, declared support for Governor Makinde of Oyo State and loyalty to a Turaki-led National Working Committee.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Zonal Publicity Secretary, Akinloye Oyeniyi, described the event as the work of organised impostors who do not represent the party at any level.
“The Zonal Chairman, Engr. Deji Doherty, was away in Abuja attending the 108th meeting of the National Executive Committee of our great party and no zonal officials held any press conference. The claim of an Ibadan press conference is therefore a barefaced lie,” Oyeniyi said.
The statement said those behind the Ibadan gathering do not speak for the party, hold no mandate, and are not recognised by any organ of the PDP from ward to national level.
Oyeniyi further said the illegality of the group was very pronounced, noting that they do not even have a Zonal Vice Chairman, which is very significant for any structure claiming to speak for the PDP South West.
“These are the ones whose agenda was to destabilise the party but they failed. Looking at them, one could see that their group is now a psychiatric ward with no staff. Destabilising elements always end up as wanderers. Karma never forgets, and wickedness by default carries consequences too,” the statement read.
According to Oyeniyi, “these ones slung toboggan, and now the stones are expectedly raining on them, and their current noise and theatrics will not substitute for acceptance by party members or the public.”
The PDP South West said its loyalty to the Abdulrahman-led National Working Committee and the National Leader, His Excellency Nyesom Wike remains unalloyed and also advised the impostors to retrace their steps and rejoin the party through the proper channels, rather than constituting themselves into a nuisance, as no amount of media stunts or paid propaganda will confer any legitimacy on illegitimacy.
He urged the general public, party faithful, and the media to disregard the publication, stating that official communications of the PDP South West Zone would continue to come only through recognised party channels in the zone under the leadership of Engr. Deji Doherty.
Iran executes two men over spying for Israel
Tinubu approves N15bn take off grant for new police academy
PDP South West Disowns Ibadan Press Conference, Calls Organisers Criminal Impostors
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