The leaders of the military coup in Niger announced their intention to try the ousted president Mohamed Bazoum on charges of "high treason" and "undermining the security" of the country.

This step is likely to increase tensions between Niger and some countries in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which seeks to resolve the crisis diplomatically, despite threatening military intervention as well.

Amadou Abd al-Rahman, a member of the military coup council, stated that "the Nigerien government has gathered evidence to try the ousted president and his local and foreign associates before the national and international bodies competent in the charge of high treason and undermining Niger's internal and external security."

The military council bases its accusations on the fact that Bazoum had made "mutual communications" with foreign nationals and heads of state, in addition to heads of international organizations.

This comes as the coup leaders continue to detain the ousted president at his presidential residence with his son and wife since the day of the coup in late July.

The military coup leaders in Niger assert that Bazoum "receives regular visits from his doctor" and that his health is fine.