Army enlargement: Troops rescue 16 kidnap victims, get well AK-47 rifles, others in Niger

The Nigerian Army has introduced that its troops of 18 Brigade have rescued 16 kidnapped victims and recovered weapons, ammunition, bikes and money throughout operations in opposition to terrorists and kidnappers in Niger State.

An announcement signed by Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, HQ 18 Brigade, mentioned the operations, performed on November 3 and 5, 2026, additionally disrupted the actions of suspected terrorists working throughout components of Niger and neighbouring Kebbi State.

It mentioned that within the November 5 operation, troops acted on intelligence studies indicating that terrorists had been transferring from Mashegu Local Government Area in the direction of Rijiyan Nagwamatse in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger State.

The assertion mentioned that the troopers subsequently positioned themselves alongside a suspected terrorist route and launched an ambush in opposition to the armed group, which had reportedly kidnapped residents within the space.

It mentioned that in the course of the encounter, the troops neutralised an unconfirmed variety of terrorists and efficiently rescued 16 kidnapped individuals.

Items recovered from the operation, in line with the assertion, included two AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, three RPG high-explosive anti-personnel bombs, 33 bikes, assorted ammunition and N4,105,000 in money.

It added that in a separate operation on November 3, troops intercepted one other group of suspected terrorists travelling from Makuku Village in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State in the direction of Tungan Kawo in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State.

Adewumi mentioned that the troops engaged the armed males in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to withdraw into the encircling forest with various levels of gunshot accidents.

“A follow-up search of the area resulted in the recovery of five motorcycles, a mobile phone, N644,300 and other items believed to be connected to the group’s activities,” the assertion mentioned.

The army authorities confirmed that each one 16 rescued victims had obtained first assist earlier than being handed over to the suitable authorities for additional help and reunification with their households.

The recovered weapons, bikes and different supplies have additionally been secured by the army for additional investigation and crucial motion.

The Commander of 18 Brigade counseled the troops for his or her bravery, resilience and dedication in the course of the operations.

He urged them to take care of the momentum and intensify efforts to eradicate prison parts working throughout the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.

It mentioned that the newest operations spotlight the Nigerian Army’s efforts to strengthen its operational capability via the enlargement of army formations, improved safety presence and enhanced response to threats.

The Army mentioned the event would additional enhance its means to guard weak communities, disrupt prison networks and deal with terrorist actions throughout its operational areas.