An American citizen, Philip Walton, abducted last week by bandits around Niger border, has been rescued in northern Nigeria by US military i
In a statement, Jonathan Hoffman, the Pentagon spokesman, said the rescue operation was conducted on Saturday morning. The American was reportedly abducted in Niger Republic on Tuesday and subsequently moved to Nigeria.
“U.S. forces conducted a hostage rescue operation during the early hours of 31 October in Northern Nigeria to recover an American citizen held hostage by a group of armed men,” the statement quoted by CNN read.
“This American citizen is safe and is now in the care of the U.S. Department of State. No U.S military personnel were injured during the operation. We appreciate the support of our international partners in conducting this operation. The United States will continue to protect our people and our interests anywhere in the world.”
The US president, Donald Trump tweeted about the rescue operation. @RealDonaldTrump tweeted:
“Last night, our Country’s brave warriors rescued an American hostage in Nigeria. Our Nation salutes the courageous soldiers behind the daring nighttime rescue operation and celebrates the safe return of yet another American citizen!.”
