afrol News, 31 March - Niger's rebel Movement for Justice (MNJ) has claimed control over Gougarm, a rural village in the northern region of the country after a heavy clash with forces loyal to the government at the weekend.

The rebel group said the seizure resulted after government forces were forced to retreat.

MNJ said its mission was to protect the interest of the neglected northern Tuareg population.

In a statement, the group said it had destroyed four military vehicles with their occupants.

The group wondered why the Tuareg population continue to grapple with unfavourable economic, environmental and health conditions for years without getting anything in return from uranium mining.

Nigerien authorities are yet to react to the rebel claims.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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