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Nigerian Army troops have rescued 16 kidnapped victims and recovered weapons, ammunition, motorcycles and more than ₦4.7 million during security operations in Niger State.
The operations took place on November 3 and 5, 2026, as troops of the Army’s 18 Brigade targeted suspected terrorists and kidnappers operating across parts of Niger and neighbouring Kebbi State.
On November 5, soldiers acted on intelligence about suspected terrorists moving from Mashegu Local Government Area towards Rijiyan Nagwamatse in Kontagora Local Government Area. They set up an ambush along suspected routes and engaged the armed group.
The troops rescued 16 people who had been abducted. They also recovered two AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, three rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) high-explosive anti-personnel bombs, 33 motorcycles, assorted ammunition and ₦4.105 million in cash.
In a separate operation on November 3, troops intercepted suspected terrorists travelling from Makuku Village in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State towards Tungan Kawo in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State.
The soldiers engaged the group in a gun battle, forcing the suspects to retreat into the surrounding forest. The Army said some of the fleeing suspects sustained gunshot wounds, although it did not confirm the number of casualties.
A search of the area led to the recovery of five motorcycles, a mobile phone, ₦644,300 in cash and other items.
The Army said the 16 rescued victims received first aid before officials handed them over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families. The military has retained the recovered items for further action.
The Commander of 18 Brigade praised the troops for their courage and commitment. He urged them to sustain the operations and intensify efforts to tackle criminal activities within their area of responsibility.
The Army said the operations demonstrated its growing capacity to respond to security threats, protect communities and disrupt the activities and supply networks of armed groups.
