Nigerian Army rescues nine kidnap victims, foils terror attacks in Niger State

Troops of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued nine kidnapped individuals and thwarted attempted terrorist attacks in the Mariga and Rijau local government areas of Niger State. These operations are part of an intensified offensive against terrorists and other criminal elements operating within the brigade's area of responsibility.

In Mariga, troops from the Nigerian Army Training Centre Admin Battalion rescued the nine victims on Wednesday, August 12. The victims were subsequently handed over to representatives of the Mariga Local Government Area for documentation and reunification with their families. The army stated that these sustained operations are crucial in combating the ongoing security challenges.

Simultaneously, on the same day, troops on a patrol in the Warari area of Rijau encountered and cleared a terrorist ambush. During this engagement, the soldiers recovered seven motorcycles, one camel, 47 cattle, and 18 sheep, believed to have been stolen from local communities. The recovered livestock were handed over to the appropriate authorities.

Two days prior, on August 10, troops also foiled an attempted infiltration and attack on the communities of Inana, Majal, and Tunga Bisallah in Rijau. The operation involved the Brigade’s Quick Response Force, troops from the 311 Artillery Regiment, and the Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Battalion X. Acting on intelligence, the troops intercepted terrorists attempting to enter the communities. The attackers, who arrived on motorcycles, fled towards a forest upon sighting the soldiers, abandoning weapons and motorcycles. The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and one motorcycle, while six others were destroyed. Some terrorists are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds.

“

Acting on credible intelligence and maintaining an effective presence in the area, the troops intercepted the terrorists as they attempted to infiltrate the communities.