At least 20 killed in stampede for food at refugee camp in Niger

Rush was started by people who had not been fed the day before, officials say

The refugee camp in Diffa was set up for people fleeing Boko Haram in neighbouring Nigeria (AFP/Getty)

At least 20 people died in a stampede in Niger as they were being given food and goods at a refugee camp, according to a local official.

Diffa governor Issa Lamine said 15 women and five children were killed and 16 other people were injured at the camp, which was set up in the southeast of the west African country for people who had fled unrest in neighbouring Nigeria.

Those who did not receive food on Sunday stampeded at the distribution centre early on Monday, Mr Lamine said.

Boko Haram's decade-long insurgency in northeastern Nigeria has killed tens of thousands and forced many more from their homes.

An offshoot affiliated with Isis also carries out attacks.

In addition, bandits launch deadly attacks in parts of northern Nigeria.

Associated Press