Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade have rescued 22 kidnapped victims from a suspected terrorist hideout in Muchiya village, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.
The victims were rescued on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, when troops of 18 Brigade Garrison, in conjunction with personnel of 45 Battalion, launched a fighting patrol following credible intelligence on the convergence of suspected terrorists in the area.
According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 18 Brigade, Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, on Wednesday night, the troops moved into the general area and came under the notice of the suspected terrorists, who fled into the surrounding forest.
He said the troops sustained the pursuit along the terrorists’ escape routes, leading to the rescue of the 22 kidnapped victims.
Three motorcycles and other items abandoned by the fleeing suspects were also recovered during the operation.
The Army said all the rescued victims had been handed over to the leadership of the Muchiya community and subsequently reunited with their families.
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One of the victims, identified as Alhaji Hassan, sustained injuries while in captivity and was promptly evacuated to a clinic, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The Commander, 18 Brigade, commended the troops for their resilience, gallantry and determination during the operation.
He charged the troops to sustain the momentum and continue to dominate 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 on the activities of criminal elements to security agencies to support ongoing operations.