Following the coup in Niger, the Ministry of External Affairs has issued a warning urging Indian people whose presence is not necessary to leave the country as soon as feasible.
At a media briefing on Friday, MEA spokeswoman Arindam Bagchi stated that the Indian government is closely monitoring the situation in Niger and urged the public to reevaluate their travel arrangements if they are going to Niamey.
Indian nationals recommended to depart from Niger
The Indian government keeps a careful eye on what’s happening in Niger. Indian nationals who are not necessary in the country are recommended to depart as soon as feasible in light of the current circumstances.
They might remember that the airspace is currently shut down. The greatest care should be taken to ensure safety and security when crossing a land border. The MEA recommended anyone who might be considering traveling to Niger in the near future to postpone their plans until things return to normal.
“It is strongly urged that those Indian nationals who have not yet registered with the Indian embassy in Niamey, the capital of Niger, do so right away. Emergency contacts at the Indian embassy in Niamey can be reached by calling 22799759975”, continued MEA.
When asked how many Indians were stranded in Niger.
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About 250 Indians stranded
Bagchi responded, “About 250 Indians are there. MEA is asking people to register themselves if they haven’t already done so with the Indian Embassy. The Indian communities are in contact with the Indian Embassy in Niamey, and we have been informed that they are secure.
Since late last month, when Mohamed Bazoum, the country’s president, was overthrown in a coup, Niger has been mired in political uncertainty. In the wake of the military takeover, Abdourahamane Tiani, the head of the presidential guard of Niger, has proclaimed himself the nation’s president.
The capital, Niamey, has been shaken by the uncertainty. While others tried to evacuate, other individuals flocked to supermarkets to stock up on essentials like rice and cooking oil. Most lines out of the capital, according to local bus company employees, were fully packed.
Many customers shopping food and supplies on Monday at the crowded Wadata market, east of the capital’s center, expressed concern about what might happen.
Meanwhile, pro-junta protesters gathered on Sunday in a 30,000-seat stadium in Niamey to declare their allegiance to the military regime and opposition to ECOWAS sanctions.
