Nigerian Army Rescues 16 Kidnap Victims and Seizes Weapons in Niger State

Nigerian Army troops have rescued 16 people who were kidnapped and seized two AK-47 rifles, three rocket-propelled grenade bombs, 33 motorcycles, ammunition, and over ₦4.7 million during operations against criminals in Niger State.

The Army shared this news in a statement signed by Captain Adebayo Adewumi, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 18 Brigade, on Friday.

The first operation took place on November 5, 2026. This was after receiving intelligence about terrorists moving from Mashegu Local Government Area to Rijiyan Nagwamatse in Kontagora Local Government Area.

The troops set up an ambush along the suspected routes of the terrorists and confronted them. These criminals had already taken residents from the area.

"The troops made contact with the criminals, who had earlier abducted residents of the area, neutralising an unconfirmed number and rescuing 16 victims," the statement said.

The operation led to the recovery of "two AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, three RPG high-explosive anti-personnel bombs, 33 motorcycles, assorted ammunition, and ₦4,105,000 in cash."

In another operation on November 3, soldiers intercepted terrorists moving from Makuku Village in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State to Tungan Kawo in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State.

According to the statement, "The troops engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight, forcing them to retreat into the surrounding forest with varying degrees of gunshot wounds."

After the fight, a search of the area led to the recovery of five motorcycles, a mobile phone, ₦644,300, and other items.

On the condition of the rescued victims, the Army 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 of 18 Brigade praised the troops for their bravery, resilience, and commitment to their duty. He urged them to keep up the momentum and work harder to clear criminal elements from their area.

The statement also noted that these operations show how the Nigerian Army's ongoing expansion helps it deal with security threats better.

It said, "The successes show the growing operational capacity of the Nigerian Army through the expansion of its formations, enhanced presence, and improved ability to respond quickly to security threats, protect communities, and disrupt the logistics and activities of criminal networks."