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American missionary kidnapped in Niger in October is freed, his organization says
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- American missionary Kevin Rideout, kidnapped in Niger's capital Niamey in October, has been released and is in good health under U.S. officials' care, according to SIM International.
- Rideout was abducted near his home by three armed individuals; no group has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.
- The kidnapping occurred close to the presidential palace amid ongoing instability following a military coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023.
- Niger faces frequent attacks from jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS, with recent violence targeting strategic locations such as Niamey's airport.
- SIM International, an evangelical mission agency operating in over 70 countries, noted Rideout had served as a missionary and pilot in Niger for 19 years.
