From Premium Times Nigeria · Manasseh Mbachii · · 2m
Troops rescue 16 kidnapped victims
Nigerian Army recovers weapons and bikes after rescuing 16 hostages.
In brief
Nigerian Army recovers weapons and bikes after rescuing 16 hostages. Nigerian Army rescued 16 kidnapped victims and recovered two rifles, three bombs, and 33 bikes during an operation in Niger State. Originally reported by Premium Times Nigeria.
Rescue operation
Troops of the Nigerian Army rescued 16 abductees and recovered two AK-47 rifles, three RPG bombs, and 33 motorcycles during an operation in Niger State.
Operation details
The Army conducted the operation on 5 November following intelligence about suspected terrorists moving from Mashegu LGA to Rijiyan Nagwamatse in Kontagora LGA.
Weapons recovered
Items recovered included two AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, three RPG high-explosive anti-personnel bombs, assorted ammunition, 33 motorcycles, and ₦4.1 million in cash.
Victims' care
Rescued victims received first aid before being handed over to families for reunification.
Related operation
On 3 November, troops intercepted suspected terrorists traveling from Makuku village in Sakaba LGA, Kebbi State, towards Tungan Kawo in Rijau LGA, Niger State.
Additional items
The army recovered five motorcycles, a mobile phone, and ₦644,300 during the related operation.
Security context
Niger State has experienced multiple kidnappings and attacks on farming communities since 2025.
Recent abductions
On 31 October, suspected bandits abducted 14 pupils and their teacher from an Islamic school while harvesting maize in Tungan-Bako village.
Previous attacks
On 27 September, 47 farmers were abducted while harvesting groundnuts in Tugan-Rimi, Mariga LGA.
August attack
On 21 August, gunmen abducted more than 500 worshippers from Juma’at mosques in Dekara and four other communities.
Fleeing communities
Residents in Borgu, Mariga, Mashegu, and Rijau LGAs have fled homes and abandoned crops due to attacks.
Earlier abduction
On 21 November 2025, armed men abducted 230 pupils, students, and staff from St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri.
Current security situation
The Army keeps recovered items in military custody for further action while urging continued operations against criminal groups.
The takeaway
Nigerian Army rescued 16 kidnapped victims and recovered two rifles, three bombs, and 33 bikes during an operation in Niger State.
