By Opeyemi Adelakun
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade have rescued 22 kidnapped victims during an offensive operation in Muchiya village, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.
The operation was conducted on September 15, 2026, by troops of the 18 Brigade Garrison in collaboration with personnel of the 45 Battalion, following credible intelligence on the convergence of terrorists in the area.
According to the acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 18 Brigade, Captain Adebayo Adewumi, the troops launched a fighting patrol into the general area based on the intelligence received.
He said the terrorists fled into the surrounding forest after sighting the advancing troops, prompting the soldiers to pursue them along their escape routes.
The pursuit resulted in the rescue of 22 kidnapped victims, while three motorcycles and other items abandoned by the fleeing terrorists were recovered.
One of the rescued victims, identified as Alhaji Hassan, sustained injuries while in captivity. He was immediately evacuated to a clinic, where he is currently receiving treatment and responding to care.
Adewumi said all the rescued victims had been handed over to the leadership of the Muchiya community and reunited with their families.
The Commander, 18 Brigade, commended the troops for their resilience, gallantry and determination during the operation.
He directed the troops to sustain the momentum and continue dominating the brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
The commander also reassured residents of Muchiya and neighbouring communities of the Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
He urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information that could assist security agencies in tracking criminal elements operating in the area.
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