The government of Niger has revoked the licenses of 14 transport operators and 19 drivers for refusing to deliver fuel to neighboring Mali, which is facing a crippling fuel shortage.
This refusal comes as an al-Qaeda affiliate, JNIM, continues a months-long blockade, turning the 1,400km delivery route into a danger zone where they attack convoys, kidnap drivers, and burn trucks, even those with military escorts.
Niger’s transport ministry called the drivers’ refusal a “serious violation of legal and regulatory obligations”.
The blockade has had a severe impact on Mali, causing fuel scarcity that has previously shut down schools and universities.
