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 towards terrorists and kidnappers in Niger State.
A press release signed by Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, HQ 18 Brigade, stated the operations, carried out on November 3 and 5, 2026, additionally disrupted the actions of suspected terrorists working throughout elements of Niger and neighbouring Kebbi State.
It stated that in the November 5 operation, troops acted on intelligence experiences indicating that terrorists have been transferring from (*16*) Local Government Area in direction of Rijiyan Nagwamatse in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger State.
The assertion stated that the troopers subsequently positioned themselves alongside a suspected terrorist route and launched an ambush towards the armed group, which had reportedly kidnapped residents in the realm.
It stated 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 response to 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 direction of Tungan Kawo in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State.
Adewumi stated 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 realm resulted in the restoration of 5 bikes, a cell phone, N644,300 and different gadgets believed to be linked to the group’s actions,” the assertion stated.
The army authorities confirmed that each one 16 rescued victims had obtained first help 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 mandatory 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 keep up the momentum and intensify efforts to eradicate felony components working inside the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
It stated that the newest operations spotlight the Nigerian Army’s efforts to strengthen its operational capability by means of the enlargement of army formations, improved safety presence and enhanced response to threats.
The Army stated the event would additional enhance its capacity to guard weak communities, disrupt felony networks and sort out terrorist actions throughout its operational areas.
