By ZAGAZOLA MAKAMA

Suspected terrorists have again attacked the Niger-Benin crude oil pipeline in the early hours of Wednesday in the Konni Department of Niger’s Tahoua Region, marking the fourth such incident this month.

Local sources report that the attack occurred near Dossey, west of Kouliki, a strategic section of the nearly 2,000-kilometre pipeline that transports crude oil from the Agadem oilfields in Niger to the port of Sèmè-Kpodji in Benin.

This latest incident follows a confrontation last Sunday in the same area, where nine assailants were reportedly neutralised by security forces. Despite increased security measures, the pipeline continues to face threats, raising concerns about the protection of vital national infrastructure.

The Niger-Benin pipeline, operated by the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), is a critical asset for Niger’s economy. Repeated attacks not only jeopardise oil exports but also pose significant environmental risks due to potential oil spills.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the group responsible for the latest sabotage. However, previous attacks have been attributed to the Patriotic Liberation Front (FPL), a rebel group opposing the current military regime in Niger. (Zagazola, but headline rejigged)