Niger coup: MEA advises Indians to 'leave as soon as possible'

The ministry of external affairs on Friday advised Indians stuck in Niger to leave the country as soon as possible. The ministry advised Indian nationals to exercise precaution while crossing the land border.

Talking to presspersons, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said India is closely monitoring the situation in Niger. “In light of the prevailing situation, Indian nationals whose presence is not essential are advised to leave the country as soon as possible. They may bear in mind that airspace is currently closed. When departing through land border, utmost precautions may be taken to ensure safety and security.” 

The ministry also advised citizens to not to travel to the country until situation normalizes. “Those who may be planning travel to Niger in the coming days are also similarly advised to reconsider their travel plans until the situation normalizes." 

On July 26, members of the presidential guard surrounded Bazoum's house and detained him.

The mutinous soldiers, who call themselves the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Country, took to state television and announced they had seized control because of deteriorating security and poor economic and social governance in the nation of 25 million people. They said they had dissolved the constitution, suspended all institutions, and closed all the borders.

The attempted coup was reportedly led by the head of the presidential guard, General Tchiani, who the president had planned to relieve from his position, Niger analysts say.