By Gabriel Ameh
Twenty-one kidnapped victims have been rescued by Nigerian Army troops following a gun battle with suspected terrorists in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
The rescue operation, conducted on November 9, 2026, followed intelligence reports about the activities of suspected terrorists in Abaha and Sabon Wuri communities.
The Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade deployed a fighting patrol to the affected areas to intercept the suspected criminals and secure the communities.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 18 Brigade, the troops engaged the suspects in a fierce gun battle during the operation.
The statement said the soldiers overpowered the suspected terrorists, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes with suspected gunshot wounds.
All 21 kidnapped victims were reportedly rescued unharmed.
The rescued individuals received first aid and underwent preliminary profiling before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families.
Following the operation, the Brigade intensified patrols and ambush operations to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks.
The Army also appealed to residents of Mariga and neighbouring local government areas to report individuals suspected of sustaining gunshot wounds, as well as suspicious movements that could help security agencies locate the fleeing terrorists.
The Commander of 18 Brigade commended the troops for their courage, resilience and professionalism, urging them to sustain the offensive until criminal activities within the Brigade’s area of responsibility are eliminated.
The Army said the operation formed part of its ongoing efforts to tackle kidnapping and terrorism in Niger State, following the recent expansion of the service and the additional operational capacity it has provided.
Source Credit: Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 18 Brigade, Nigerian Army.
