Troops Rescue 22 Kidnapped Victims In Niger

Troops of 18 Brigade (Bde), Nigerian Army, in continuation of intensified offensive operations to deny terrorists freedom of action within its Area of Responsibility (AOR), have rescued 22 kidnapped victims in Muchiya village, Rafi local government area (LGA) of Niger State.

A statement by the acting assistant director, Army Public Relations, HQ 18 Brigade Captain Adebayo Adewumi said the rescue was recorded on 15th September, 2026 when troops of 18 Bde Garrison (Gar), in conjunction with troops of 45 Battalion, acting on credible intelligence on the convergence of terrorists, launched a fighting patrol to the general area.

The terrorists, on sighting the advancing troops, fled in disarray into the surrounding forest in a bid to evade contact.

The troops sustained the pursuit of the terrorists along their escape routes and consequently rescued 22 kidnapped victims and recovered 3 motorcycles and other sundry items abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.

He said one of the victims, Alhaji Hassan, who sustained injury while in captivity, was promptly evacuated to a clinic and is currently responding to treatment.

He revealed that all rescued victims have been handed over to the Muchiya community leadership and have since been reunited with their families.

The Commander 18 Brigade commended the troops for their resilience, gallantry, and doggedness.

He charged them with maintaining momentum and ensuring continuous domination of the AOR.

He further reassured law-abiding citizens of Muchiya and adjoining communities of the Bde’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, while urging them to continue providing timely and credible information on the activities of criminal elements.