A high-risk U.S. military raid in Nigeria has resulted in the rescue of an American citizen who was abducted last week in Niger Republic, officials say.
Elite commandos embarked on the mission to free 27-year-old Philip Walton before his abductors could get far after taking him captive in Niger on Oct. 26.
A statement by Pentagon Chief Spokesperson, Jonathan Hoffman, said, ”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.
“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.”
Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, also stated, “Thanks to the extraordinary courage and capabilities of our military, the support of our intelligence professionals, and our diplomatic efforts, the hostage will be reunited with his family. We will never abandon any American taken hostage.”
Meanwhile, another American and a Christian humanitarian aid worker, Jeffery Rey Woodke, has been held hostage for the past four years in northern Niger.