Jail for Niger's mutinous troops

A military tribunal has convicted six soldiers for their part in a mutiny in Niger's capital, Niamey, in 2002.

Two of the men were given seven-year prison terms; the other four were freed because of time already served in jail.

The Niamey mutiny was held to support other troops in the border town of Diffa protesting against their living conditions and unpaid wages.

Another 57 soldiers were acquitted for their part in the mutiny in which senior officials were kidnapped.

Two civilians were killed in the unrest that was finally quelled by troops loyal to the government.

Those accused of the killings are still awaiting trial.