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Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade have rescued 21 kidnapped victims during a fierce gun battle with terrorists in Abaha and Sabon Wuri villages in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
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The operation, conducted on November 9, followed credible intelligence on the activities of terrorists in the affected communities.
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The Army said the terrorists were overpowered and forced to flee into nearby bushes with suspected gunshot wounds, while all 21 victims were rescued unhurt.
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Troops have intensified patrols and ambush operations to apprehend the fleeing terrorists, as the military urges residents to report suspicious movements and persons with suspected gunshot wounds.
November 10, (THEWILL) – Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade have rescued 21 kidnapped victims following a fierce gun battle with suspected terrorists in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
The operation, conducted on November 9, 2026, followed credible intelligence on the activities of terrorists in Abaha and Sabon Wuri villages in the local government area.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters 18 Brigade, the troops swiftly deployed a fighting patrol to the general area after receiving intelligence on the activities of the criminal elements.
The statement said the troops made contact with the terrorists, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire during which the armed group was overpowered and forced to retreat into nearby bushes.
The fleeing terrorists were suspected to have sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter.
The Army confirmed that all 21 kidnapped victims were rescued unhurt. It said the victims received first aid treatment and underwent preliminary profiling before being handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families.
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Following the encounter, troops intensified efforts to track down and apprehend the fleeing terrorists through aggressive patrols and ambush operations across the area.
The Brigade also called on residents of Mariga and neighbouring local government areas to support ongoing security operations by providing timely and credible information on the whereabouts of suspected criminals.
It specifically urged members of the public to report anyone found with suspected gunshot wounds, as well as suspicious movements or activities by criminal elements, to the nearest security agency for prompt action.
The Commander of 18 Brigade commended the troops for their gallantry, resilience and professionalism during the operation. He charged them to sustain the aggressive operational posture and maintain the momentum of ongoing operations to ensure that the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility (AOR) is completely rid of criminal activities and remains safe for law-abiding citizens.
The rescue adds to ongoing military efforts to tackle armed groups operating in Niger State, where communities have continued to face security threats, including kidnapping and attacks by armed criminals.
The Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against criminal elements and ensuring the safety of residents across its operational area.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
