Nigerian Army's 18 Brigade Rescues 22 Kidnapped Victims

On September 15, 2026, troops from the Nigerian Army's 18 Brigade conducted an operation in Muchiya village, Rafi Local Government Area, Niger State, resulting in the rescue of 22 kidnapped victims from terrorists. The operation was initiated after the troops received credible intelligence regarding the gathering of terrorists in the area.

A statement from Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at Headquarters 18 Brigade, detailed that the troops, in collaboration with personnel from the 45 Battalion, launched a fighting patrol towards the identified location. Upon encountering the terrorists, the criminals fled into the nearby forest, prompting a sustained pursuit by the troops.

The operation culminated in the successful rescue of the victims and the recovery of three motorcycles and other items left behind by the fleeing terrorists. The rescued individuals were handed over to the Muchiya community leadership for documentation and family reunification.

One victim, Alhaji Hassan, sustained injuries during captivity and was evacuated for medical treatment.