France, Aug. 30 -- Intense fighting took place overnight from Friday to Saturday, with the army and its Russian Africa Corps allies managing to take back control late in the day.

Mutineers notably tried to storm the presidential compound. Several were killed, according to a security source, while others were arrested.

Television pictures showed soldiers surrendering.

Niger has been led by General Abdourahamane Tiani since a coup in July 2023. He has moved the country closer to Russia and away from Western partners, notably former colonial power France.

On Sunday morning, access to the airbase at the airport, where the mutineers had barricaded themselves in, and to the presidency, were open again, residents said.

Local people were goi...