Two Nigerien soldiers killed in Boko Haram attack

Two Nigerien soldiers were killed and three others were injured on Wednesday when explosives carried by Boko Haram fighters exploded in the country's Far East region of Diffa which borders Nigeria, Defense Minister Karidjo Mahamadou said in Niamey.

The minister said the tragedy occurred following the explosion of materials carried by Boko Haram fighters who had been shot at by the Nigerien soldiers when they tried to enter Diffa town.

"The two soldiers died in the explosion and the others were injured by the particles of the explosive devices," he said.

The minister said no suicide bomber achieved his objective because they were killed before carrying out their mission. He however did not give the number of terrorists who were killed, injured or arrested.

The attack in Diffa by Boko Haram terrorist group was planned at a time when the region's new governor, Gen. Abdou Kaza, was being sworn in.

It also came after the government's decision on Oct. 14 to extend the state of emergency in this Nigerien territory by 15 days due to recurrent attacks.

For the last seven months, Niger, just like other countries neighbouring Lake Chad Basin, has come under deadly attacks perpetrated by Boko Haram from its positions in Nigeria. The attacks have left many civilians and soldiers dead.

Nigerien armed forces are currently engaged in an international coalition against Boko Haram sect, to secure the Lake Chad basin that is shared by Niger, Chad, Cameroon and Nigeria. Enditem