Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade have rescued 22 people who were kidnapped by terrorists in Muchiya community, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.
The victims were rescued on September 15 following a joint operation by troops of the 18 Brigade Garrison and 45 Battalion.
The operation was launched after the troops received intelligence indicating that suspected terrorists had gathered in the area.
In a statement issued by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 18 Brigade, Captain Adebayo Adewumi, the Army said the terrorists fled into the surrounding forest when they noticed the advancing troops.
According to the statement, the troops pursued the fleeing suspects along their escape routes, leading to the rescue of the 22 victims.
The Army said, “Consequently, troops rescued 22 kidnapped victims and recovered three motorcycles and other sundry items abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.”
It added that the rescued victims had been handed over to the Muchiya community leadership and reunited with their families.
One of the victims, identified as Alhaji Hassan, reportedly sustained injuries while in captivity and was taken to a clinic for medical attention.
The Army said Hassan was responding to treatment.
The Commander of the 18 Brigade praised the troops for their “resilience, gallantry, and doggedness” during the operation.
He urged them to sustain the momentum and continue efforts to dominate the area.
The commander also assured residents of Muchiya and neighbouring communities that the brigade remained committed to protecting lives and property.
He called on residents to provide security agencies with “timely and credible information” on the activities of criminals operating in the area.
