RismadarVoice Reporters
September 17, 2026
Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 22 people held by suspected terrorists in Muchiya village, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State, following a military operation based on intelligence received about the presence of armed groups in the area.
The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 18 Brigade, Adebayo Adewumi, disclosed the development in a statement on Wednesday.
According to the Army, the operation was conducted on September 15 by troops of the 18 Brigade Garrison and 45 Battalion after intelligence indicated that suspected terrorists were gathering around the community.
The troops subsequently launched a fighting patrol towards the location.
Adewumi said the suspected terrorists fled into the surrounding forest after sighting the advancing soldiers, prompting the troops to pursue them along their escape routes.
The Army said the operation led to the rescue of 22 kidnapped victims, while three motorcycles and other items allegedly abandoned by the fleeing suspects were recovered.
VICTIMS REUNITED WITH FAMILIES
Following the rescue, the victims were handed over to leaders of the Muchiya community before being reunited with their families.
One of the rescued persons, identified as Alhaji Hassan, was reported to have sustained injuries while in captivity.
He was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment and was said to be responding to care.
The Brigade Commander commended the troops for the operation and directed them to sustain pressure on armed groups operating within the area.
The Army also assured residents of Muchiya and neighbouring communities that military operations would continue to protect lives and property.
Residents were urged to provide security agencies with timely and credible information on suspicious movements and activities within their communities.
The latest rescue comes amid continuing military and security operations against armed groups responsible for kidnappings and attacks in parts of Niger State.
In August, President Bola Tinubu directed the Armed Forces, police, Department of State Services and other security agencies to coordinate efforts to rescue victims following a mass abduction in the state.
The directive followed the kidnapping of worshippers during Friday prayers at Kpenya Mosque in Dekara District of Borgu Local Government Area on August 21.
The exact number of people abducted in that incident was not officially established at the time, although residents reported that dozens of people were missing.
