Niger’s military government has accused Chad of carrying out a deadly drone strike that killed two civilians and wounded others in northern Niger. 

The authorities, in a statement read on national television, said they had summoned the Chadian ambassador over the incident. Niamey also demanded an immediate end to what it described as hostile actions and called for compensation for the damage caused. According to the government, the strike hit the Salvador Pass in the mountainous Emi Lulu area early on Saturday. 

The remote mining region lies near the borders with Algeria and Libya and serves as a key route for smuggling and militant activity. Niger described the incident as an act of aggression and a violation of its sovereignty, accusing Chad of supporting mercenaries and targeting civilians and strategic infrastructure. 

The military government also alleged that France supported the operation, amid strained relations with its former colonial ruler. Niger said it would refer the matter to the United Nations Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council. It also called for an independent international investigation and urged its partners to show solidarity.