Niamey, Niger - Niger’s President Mahamadou Issoufou Tuesday night confirmed the attempted coup plot against his regime, said to have been foiled on 12 July.

In a message broadcast on radio and television to mark the country's independence, the President said nine of those who tried to undermine the security of state had been arrested, while one of them is still on the run.

'The investigation is going on and we hope this will lead us to people who are behind this act. The law will be applied in full force against anyone who, without justification, have questioned the choice made by the people of Niger fewer than four months ago,' he said.

The attempted coup, which was foiled by the nation's secret service, was said to be aimed at assassinating President Issoufou, elected in March to rule the country after 13 months of transition led by Gen. Djibo Salou.

He said the attempted coup came as the government was vigorously acting against misappropriation of public funds.

'The time when some considered the public treasury their personal safe is now over,' said the President, who recently set up a body to tackle corruption in the country.

Pana 04/08/2011