PHOTO: Army Rescues 21 Hostages, Repels Terrorists in Niger
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade have rescued 21 kidnapped victims following a fierce gun battle with suspected terrorists in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
The rescue operation, which took place on November 9, 2026, was carried out after troops received credible intelligence about the activities of terrorists in Abaha and Sabon Wuri villages.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 18 Brigade, the troops swiftly deployed a fighting patrol to the area to intercept the suspected criminals.
The statement disclosed that the encounter triggered a fierce firefight during which the troops overpowered the terrorists, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes with suspected gunshot wounds.
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It added that all 21 kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed and subsequently given first aid treatment and subjected to preliminary profiling before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families.
Following the operation, the Brigade said troops had intensified efforts through aggressive patrols and ambush operations to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
It also urged residents of Mariga and neighbouring local government areas to report anyone suspected of sustaining gunshot wounds, as well as suspicious movements of criminal elements, to the nearest security agency.
The Commander of 18 Brigade commended the troops for their gallantry, resilience and professionalism, urging them to sustain the operational momentum until criminal activities are completely eliminated from the Brigade’s area of responsibility.
The Army said the operation was part of its sustained efforts to combat kidnapping and terrorism in Niger State, following the recent expansion of the service and the operational boost it has provided.
By PRNigeria
