Bandits shoot, Air Force helicopter crashes

Niger: Nigerian Air Force helicopter has crashed, killing at least 10 soldiers in the north-central state of Niger.

According to the international media, the plane came under the fire of armed robbers.

While talking to the media, Nigerian Air Force Spokesman Air Commodore Edward Gbkwet stated that a helicopter crashed near Chokoba village.

The Air Force officials are investigating the incident's cause.

It is not confirmed how many people were on board the helicopter.

Military sources said that at least 10 soldiers were killed in the attack when the bandits opened fire on the helicopter.

The helicopter was sent to evacuate the victims of Sunday's attack.

Bandits and armed groups are spread in the northwest of Nigeria where they loot and kidnap people for ransom.