Troops rescue 16 kidnapped victims, recover AK-47 rifles, RPG bombs, 33 motorcycles in Niger
By Ayorinde Oluokun
Troops of 18 Brigade of Nigerian Army have dealt significant blows to terrorists and kidnappers in Niger State, rescuing 16 abducted persons and recovering dangerous weapons, ammunition and logistics.
Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations in a statement on Friday said the troops, acting on credible intelligence, ambushed the terrorists who were moving from Mashegu Local Government Area towards Rijiyan Nagwamatse in Kontagora Local Government Area.
The troops made contact with the criminals, who had earlier abducted residents of the area, neutralising an unconfirmed number and rescuing 16 victims.
Adewumi listed items recovered during the operation conducted on November 5 to include two AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, three RPG high-explosive anti-personnel bombs, 33 motorcycles, assorted ammunition and ₦4,105,000 in cash.
Adewumi added that in a related operation, the troops on 3 November 2026 intercepted terrorists moving from Makuku Village in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State towards Tungan Kawo in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State.
He added that the troops engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight, forcing them to retreat into the surrounding forest with varying degrees of gunshot wounds.
“A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of five motorcycles, a mobile phone, ₦644,300 and other sundry items,”
The spokesperson said the 16 rescued victims have received first aid and have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families, while recovered items remain in military custody for further action.
The Commander, 18 Brigade, commended the troops for their gallantry, resilience in and commitment to duty, urging them to sustain the operational momentum and intensify efforts to rid the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility of criminal elements.
“The successes underscore the growing operational capacity of the Nigerian Army through the expansion of its formations, enhanced presence and improved ability to respond swiftly to security threats, protect communities and disrupt the logistics and activities of criminal networks, said the Army.