The Direction de la Police judiciaire (DPJ) announced the dismantling of a sexual predator network in Niamey on October 12, 2026. Police officials confirmed the operation concluded earlier today as part of an investigation into criminal activity within the city. Officers arrested three suspects during the enforcement action. Authorities have placed these individuals in police custody while the investigation continues. The Direction of the Judicial Police (DPJ) confirmed that this operation was the result of a coordinated effort by law enforcement units to identify and apprehend those involved in the criminal network.
Investigation Into Predator Network
Investigators initiated the inquiry after a mother reported a situation involving her 14-year-old son and 16-year-old nephew. The investigation began after a mother reported a situation involving her 14-year-old son and 16-year-old nephew to local authorities. The victims stated they were abused by a sports instructor they encountered at the municipal stadium. The victims reported being abused by a sports instructor met at the municipal stadium who promised them sports equipment and team integration. According to the police report, the instructor had promised the youths sports equipment and integration into a sports team to facilitate the encounters. Officers are currently reviewing these testimonies as part of the ongoing case processed by the Direction de la Police judiciaire. This testimony serves as a primary pillar for the ongoing legal proceedings handled by the investigators.
Suspects and Medical Evidence
Suspects identified by the Direction de la Police judiciaire include a manager of a football sports association, a former neighbor of the victims, and an agent of the Defense and Security Forces. Three suspects were arrested and placed in police custody. The suspects include a manager of a football sports association, an former neighbor of the victims, and an agent of the Defense and Security Forces. These individuals remain in custody as investigators gather further evidence regarding their alleged roles in the network. The Division Mœurs et Protection des mineurs is currently coordinating with the Division de recherche et d’investigation to finalize the case files for the prosecutor.
Medical examinations performed following the initial reports confirmed the sexual abuse of the two minors. Medical examinations confirmed the sexual abuse of the two minors. Forensic specialists conducted the assessments at a local hospital facility to document the injuries and physical evidence. Findings from these examinations are now integrated into the official case report maintained by the Direction de la Police judiciaire.
Police nationale officials have increased public awareness regarding the reporting of similar criminal activities in the capital. The Police Nationale provides free reporting numbers 17 and 8383 for citizens to contact authorities. The agency provides free reporting numbers 17 and 8383 for citizens to contact authorities. Residents are encouraged to use these lines to share information related to suspicious behavior or potential risks to minors in their communities. By utilizing these dedicated lines, the Police Nationale aims to gather intelligence that may prevent future incidents of this nature within the city of Niamey.
