India advises its citizens to leave violence-hit Niger as soon as possible
New Delhi, Aug 11: India on Friday advised its nationals residing in violence-hit Niger to leave that country as soon as possible in view of escalating violence there.
At present, around 250 Indians are living in Niger that has witnessed widespread protests and violence following last month's coup.
In an advisory, the Ministry of External Affairs said those who may be planning to travel to Niger should reconsider their plans until the situation normalises.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at his weekly media briefing that India is closely monitoring the ongoing developments in Niger.
"In light of the prevailing situation, Indian nationals whose presence is not essential are advised to leave the country as soon as possible," he said.
"They may bear in mind that air space is currently closed. When departing through a land border, utmost precautions may be taken to ensure safety and security," he added, reading out an advisory.
"All those Indian nationals who have not registered with the Indian Embassy in Niamey are strongly advised to do so expeditiously," he said.
"Indian nationals can reach emergency contact in the Embassy of India, Niamey (+ 227 9975 9975) for any assistance," he said.
Bagchi said the Indian embassy in Niamey is in touch with the Indian community and that it is looking at facilitating the exit of the Indians from the country.
"We have been told that the Indians (there) are safe," he added.
A number of European countries evacuated their citizens from Niger.
On July 26, Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani seized power in Niger overthrowing President Mohamed Bazoum by staging a coup.
Following the coup, 62-year-old Gen Tchiani declared himself as the head of the 'National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland'.
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Harry Brook blitzes to 3000 Test runs; fastest ever in terms of balls faced
Melbourne: On a frantic day one of the fourth Ashes Test on Friday (Dec 26), amidst the fiercest bowler's day out, English batsman Harry brook reached the milestone by completing 3000 runs in Test, in terms of balls faced.
In 34 Test matches, Brook scored 3034 runs at a strike rate of over 86, with 10 centuries and 14 half-centuries, in 57 innings, at an average of 54.17. He reached the landmark in just 3,468 deliveries.
Brook made an exceptional kick off to his test career by amassing 809 runs in his first six test appearances having batted ten times with a career average of 80.90 and with a strike rate of almost 100. In December 2024, he topped the ICC rankings for Test batsmen during England's tour of New Zealand. He was named as ICC Men's Player of the Month award twice in December 2022 and February 2023.
