Nigerian Army troops rescue 21 kidnapped victims in Niger

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade have rescued 21 kidnapped victims during an operation against terrorists in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.

The victims were rescued on November 9 following a fierce gun battle between the troops and suspected terrorists operating around Abaha and Sabon Wuri villages in the local government area.

The operation comes amid intensified military offensives against terrorists and kidnappers in parts of Niger State, following the recent expansion of the Nigerian Army and the additional operational capacity it has provided.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters 18 Brigade, Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, said the troops acted on credible intelligence about the activities of terrorists in the two communities.

He said the intelligence prompted the deployment of a fighting patrol to the area to intercept the criminal elements.

According to him, the troops made contact with the terrorists, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire during which the soldiers overpowered the armed men.

The terrorists reportedly fled into nearby bushes in disarray, with some suspected to have sustained gunshot wounds.

Adewumi said all 21 kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed and subsequently handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families.

He added that the victims received first aid treatment and underwent preliminary profiling before being transferred to the relevant authorities.

The Army spokesman said troops had intensified operations, including aggressive patrols and ambushes, to track down and apprehend the fleeing terrorists.

He urged residents of Mariga and neighbouring local government areas to remain vigilant and promptly report anyone found with suspected gunshot wounds, as well as suspicious movements of criminal elements, to the nearest security agency.

The statement quoted the Commander of 18 Brigade as commending the troops for their gallantry, resilience and professionalism during the operation.

The commander urged them to sustain the aggressive operational posture and maintain the momentum until the brigade’s area of responsibility was rid of criminal activities.

He said the military remained committed to ensuring the safety of law-abiding residents across the area.