ISIS Sahel Militants Reportedly Kidnap Chinese Nationals, Kill Guards In Niger Republic
Civilians in Agadez and surrounding areas have long accused security forces of corruption, racketeering, and human rights abuses.
At least two Chinese nationals working for the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) have been abducted by suspected ISIS SAHEL militants in Niger.
The attack, which took place on Sunday in Agadez, also claimed the lives of two Nigerien security personnel from the Garde Nationale du Niger (GNN).
Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, confirmed the incident on Monday via his X handle.
He described it as part of a growing trend of abductions and killings linked to ISIS SAHEL, which has intensified its operations in Niger and the broader Sahel region.
Civilians in Agadez and surrounding areas have long accused security forces of corruption, racketeering, and human rights abuses.
Zagazola said that reports indicate that between January 27 and 30, Nigerien security forces were allegedly responsible for the killings of herders and goldmine diggers.
He said that the junta in power has faced heavy criticism for failing to address these human rights abuses, which has only fueled public anger.
Zagazola highlighted the growing threat of ISIS Sahel, pointing to the kidnapping of Chinese expatriates as a clear example of how the extremist group is now targeting foreign nationals.
He also noted that previous abductions—such as those of former petroleum minister Barke Moustapha and Spanish tourists in southern Algeria—are believed to be part of a larger strategy to demand high ransoms or negotiate the release of detained ISIS members.
According to him, the situation in Niger is becoming increasingly dire, not just because of the human toll but also due to the risk of further destabilising the region.
The junta’s inability to curb these attacks and protect civilians has led to rising frustration, which could push some locals toward armed resistance.
Zagazola warned that this could have serious consequences, especially for neighboring Nigeria, where there are growing concerns about people from the northwest crossing into Niger for mining activities.
