Niger’s police arrest more than half a dozen officials from ousted leader’s administration
By APTuesday, March 30, 2010
Niger police arrest officials loyal to ex-leader
NIAMEY, Niger — Niger’s interior minister says more than half a dozen former ministers loyal to Niger’s ex-leader have been arrested.
Cisse Ousmane says the officials, including the former prime minister, were arrested Sunday for carrying out “subversive” actions. He said Tuesday the officials are being detained at a police camp and will appear before a judge.
Renegade soldiers overthrew President Mamadou Tandja on Feb. 18 in a coup after the aging leader refused to step down after his mandate expired in December.
The junta later announced it would form a transitional government giving Maj. Salou Djibou the power to appoint a premier and Cabinet.
Also Tuesday, Niger’s police director said that hundreds have been arrested in an effort to restore order.
