US missionary released following kidnap in Niger, Christian group says

Kevin Rideout, an American missionary who worked for SIM International, was released after being held captive in Niger for over nine months. The Christian organization announced his release on Friday, stating that he was in good health under the care of US officials. SIM International cited unnamed US officials as saying Rideout was currently in FBI custody.

Rideout was kidnapped outside his home in Niger's capital, Niamey, last year. He was taken to the western Tillaberi region, an area known for its militant activity. The kidnapping was reportedly carried out by three armed men who transported him to the militant hotspot. There were concerns that Rideout's captors could have been members of militant groups such as Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda affiliate that has been linked to numerous attacks in the region.

Islamist militant organizations from neighboring countries like Nigeria, Mali, and Burkina Faso have plagued Niger for years, targeting both civilians and security forces.

Following Rideout's kidnapping, the US government warned its citizens to avoid traveling to Niger due to a heightened risk of terrorism, crime, and civil unrest. It was later reported that Rideout, who is also a pilot, might have been transferred to another group before his release. SIM International confirmed that Rideout would soon be reunited with his family, including his wife, children, and extended relatives.

The missionary had been serving in Niger for 19 years and was also a pilot for the Christian organization, which operates in more than 70 countries.

SIM International expressed relief and gratitude over Rideout's release, stating that the family had been seeking privacy to reconnect after being apart for an extended period. The organization emphasized that Rideout's return was a significant event after months of uncertainty regarding his wellbeing.