Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 16 abducted persons and recovered two AK-47 rifles, three rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs and 33 motorcycles during an operation against terrorists in Niger State.
Gatekeepers News reports that the operation, conducted on November 5, 2026, also led to the recovery of seven rifle magazines, assorted ammunition and ₦4.1 million in cash following an ambush along suspected terrorist routes in Kontagora Local Government Area.
The Army said troops of the 18 Brigade acted on credible intelligence about the movement of terrorists from Mashegu Local Government Area towards Rijiyan Nagwamatse in Kontagora, where they engaged the armed men, who had earlier abducted residents.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 18 Brigade, Captain Adebayo Adewumi, said the troops neutralised an unconfirmed number of the attackers.
“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 statement said.
The Army described the operation as evidence of the growing impact of its expanding operational presence across the country.
“The ongoing expansion of the Nigerian Army is strengthening its operational reach and delivering positive results, as troops of 18 Brigade have dealt significant blows to terrorists and kidnappers in Niger State, rescuing 16 abducted persons and recovering dangerous weapons, ammunition and logistics,” it stated.
In a related operation on November 3, troops reportedly intercepted terrorists travelling from Makuku Village in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State towards Tungan Kawo in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State.
According to the Army, the troops engaged the suspects in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to retreat into a nearby forest with gunshot wounds.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of five motorcycles, a mobile phone, ₦644,300 and other items.
The statement said the Commander of 18 Brigade commended the troops for their courage, resilience and commitment to duty, urging them to sustain the momentum and intensify efforts to rid the brigade’s area of responsibility of criminal elements.
It added that the successes demonstrated the Nigerian Army’s growing operational capacity through expanded formations, increased military presence and an improved ability to respond swiftly to security threats, protect communities and disrupt criminal networks.
The latest operation comes amid renewed security concerns in Niger State, following the abduction of 14 students of an Islamiyya school and their teacher in Tungan-Bako village, Rafi Local Government Area, on October 31.
It also follows attacks on communities in Rafi LGA, prompting the Niger State House of Assembly to commend the military for repelling the assailants and call for the establishment of additional military bases in vulnerable communities.
