Ten dead in violent demonstrations in Niger because of Charlie Hebdo Caricature

The violent events that took place Friday and Saturday in several cities of Niger against the new caricature of the Prophet Sidna Mohammed, published in the latest issue of the satirical newspaper + Charlie Hebdo +, caused ten deaths and tens of wounded, according to a new official toll.

“In Zinder, it was recorded five deaths including one found this morning calcined in a church. In Niamey, the record is five dead, all civilians, including four killed in churches and bars,” said Saturday evening, Nigerian President Mahamadou Issoufou in a speech broadcast on national television.

In the city of Zinder, located some 900 km east of Niamey, the toll of the clashes between demonstrators and police Friday made 45 wounded. Protesters attacked mainly the churches and the French cultural center, they ransacked and burned, before attacking a military barracks where the heaviest fighting took place.

In Niamey, riots took place on Saturday in several districts of the city, between security forces and protesters who attacked churches and local shops. The main markets of the capital were closed, severely disrupted traffic while in different locations of the tires were ignited.

“We condemn these agitations, deplore the loss of life and the high number of casualties on both side of the demonstrators, innocent citizens, the side of the police”, the president issoufou said in his speech while that an investigation is opened. “Those responsible for these wild events will be identified and punished according to the law,” he said.

Calling on his fellow citizens to restraint and calm, the Nigerian president said: “Peace, as you know, is our most valuable asset I ask you, therefore you stand out from these agitations I ask you to contribute.. to preserve peace and tranquility that we want so much. I ask you to help prevent our country unnecessary hardship. “