Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 18 Brigade have dealt significant blows to terrorists and kidnapping gangs operating across Niger State, rescuing 16 abducted persons and recovering assault rifles, rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs, ammunition and 33 motorcycles in a series of operations.

The operations, conducted between November 3 and 5, 2026, highlight the growing operational reach of the Nigerian Army following the expansion of its formations and enhanced deployment of troops to vulnerable areas.

In the first operation on November 5, troops, acting on credible intelligence about the movement of terrorists from Mashegu Local Government Area towards Rijiyan Nagwamatse in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger State, established an ambush along suspected criminal routes.

The troops subsequently made contact with the armed group, which had reportedly abducted residents of the area, and engaged them in a fierce encounter, neutralising an unconfirmed number of terrorists and rescuing 16 kidnapped victims.

A search of the operational area led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, three RPG high-explosive anti-personnel bombs, 33 motorcycles, assorted ammunition and N4.105 million in cash.

In a related operation on November 3, troops intercepted another group of terrorists moving from Makuku Village in Sakaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State towards Tungan Kawo in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger State.

The troops engaged the criminals in a fierce firefight, forcing them to retreat into the surrounding forest with varying degrees of gunshot wounds.

A subsequent exploitation of the area resulted in the recovery of five motorcycles, a mobile phone, N644,300 and other sundry items.

The 16 rescued victims have received first aid and were subsequently handed over to the appropriate authorities for reunification with their families, while the recovered weapons, ammunition and other items remain in military custody.

The Commander, 18 Brigade, commended the troops for their gallantry, resilience and commitment to duty, urging them to sustain the operational momentum and intensify efforts to rid the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility of criminal elements.

The latest successes underscore the importance of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing expansion, which is strengthening its operational footprint, improving rapid response capabilities and enabling sustained pressure against terrorist networks, particularly across the volatile North-West and North-Central security corridors.

The recovery of 33 motorcycles, in particular, represents a significant disruption to the mobility and logistics of armed groups that rely heavily on motorcycles to transport fighters, weapons and supplies across remote communities and forest routes. (Zagazola)