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2d ago

U.S. Missionary Abducted in Niamey; Search Traces Suspected Path Toward Mali Border

Authorities coordinate to locate the SIM pilot, with investigators tracking a suspected route toward the Tillaberi–Mali border.

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A vehicle allegedly belonging to the Islamic State group in West Africa (ISWAP) is seen in Baga on August 2, 2019. - Intense fighting between a regional force and the Islamic State group in West Africa (ISWAP) has resulted in dozens of deaths, including at least 25 soldiers and more than 40 jihadists, in northeastern Nigeria. ISWAP broke away from Boko Haram in 2016 in part due to its rejection of indiscriminate attacks on civilians. Last year the group witnessed a reported takeover by more hardline fighters who sidelined its leader and executed his deputy. The IS-affiliate has since July 2018 ratcheted up a campaign of attacks against military targets. (Photo by AUDU MARTE / AFP) (Photo credit should read AUDU MARTE/AFP via Getty Images)
Kevin

Overview

  • The State Department confirmed an American citizen was kidnapped in Niger’s capital and said the U.S. Embassy is working with local authorities to secure his return.
  • Security sources say three armed men seized the victim in Niamey’s Plateau district near the airport and presidential area before heading northwest toward Tillaberi.
  • No group has claimed responsibility and no ransom demand has been reported, while Nigerien authorities suspect Islamic State-linked actors may be involved.
  • Several outlets identify the victim as Kevin Rideout, a 50-year-old SIM pilot who has lived in Niger since 2010, though officials have not publicly named him.
  • The embassy issued heightened security measures for staff as the case highlights a sharp rise in foreign kidnappings since the 2023 coup and the drawdown of Western forces.