Niger Junta Foils Ousted President's Escape Attempt

Niger's military government has announced that it foiled an escape attempt by deposed President Mohamed Bazoum, who had been held in custody for nearly three months following a coup. Bazoum had planned to flee to neighboring Nigeria with his family and two domestic staff, but the prompt reaction of the defense and security forces prevented their escape. The main perpetrators and some accomplices have been arrested, but Bazoum's current whereabouts are unknown. The military junta has held on to power despite international pressure, and last week, the US declared Bazoum's ouster as a coup and suspended assistance programs to Niger.