Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 16 kidnapped victims and recovered AK-47 rifles, RPG bombs and 33 motorcycles in a major operation against terrorists in Niger State.
The operation was carried out on November 5, 2026, by troops of 18 Brigade, following credible intelligence on the movement of terrorists from Mashegu Local Government Area towards Rijiyan Nagwamatse in Kontagora Local Government Area.
According to a statement signed by Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, HQ 18 Brigade, troops established an ambush along suspected terrorist routes and made contact with the criminals who had earlier abducted residents of the area.
An unconfirmed number of terrorists were neutralised during the encounter, while 16 victims were rescued unhurt.
Items recovered from the terrorists include:
– 2 AK-47 rifles
– 7 magazines
– 3 RPG high-explosive anti-personnel bombs
– 33 motorcycles
– Assorted ammunition
– ₦4,105,000 cash
In a related operation on November 3, 2026, troops intercepted terrorists moving from Makuku Village in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State towards Tungan Kawo in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State.
The troops engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight, forcing them to retreat into the surrounding forest with varying degrees of gunshot wounds.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of five motorcycles, a mobile phone, ₦644,300 and other sundry items.
*VICTIMS REUNITED WITH FAMILIES*
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, 18 Brigade, commended the troops for their gallantry, resilience and commitment to duty, urging them to sustain the operational momentum and intensify efforts to rid the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility of criminal elements.
The Army said the successes underscore the growing operational capacity of the Nigerian Army through the expansion of its formations, enhanced presence and improved ability to respond swiftly to security threats, protect communities and disrupt the logistics of criminal networks.
