Niger Army Rescues 21 Kidnap Victims After Fierce Gun Battle With Terrorists in Mariga
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade have rescued 21 kidnapped victims following a fierce encounter with terrorists in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
The successful operation, conducted on November 9, 2026, represents another major breakthrough in the military’s ongoing campaign against kidnapping and terrorism in the state, following the recent expansion of the Nigerian Army.
According to the Army, the troops acted on credible intelligence regarding the activities of terrorists in Abaha and Sabon Wuri villages in Mariga LGA, prompting the deployment of a fighting patrol to the affected communities.
The troops subsequently made contact with the terrorists, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire. The superior firepower of the soldiers forced the criminals to retreat into the surrounding bush with suspected gunshot wounds.
All 21 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued without injuries. They received first aid treatment and underwent preliminary profiling before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families.
The Brigade has intensified its operations through aggressive patrols and ambushes to track down and apprehend the fleeing terrorists.
It also called on residents of Mariga and neighbouring local government areas to report anyone suspected of sustaining gunshot wounds, as well as suspicious movements, to the nearest security agency.
The Commander of 18 Brigade commended the troops for their bravery, resilience and professionalism, urging them to sustain the operational momentum until criminal activities are completely eliminated from the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
