American missionary Kevin Rideout has been released after spending more than nine months in captivity following his abduction in Niger Republic.
SIM International, the missionary organisation where Rideout serves, confirmed his release in a statement on Friday, expressing gratitude that he was safely freed.
The organisation said Rideout was in good health and currently under the care of U.S. officials, adding that arrangements were being made for him to reunite with his family.
Rideout was kidnapped by armed men in Niamey, Niger’s capital, on October 21 last year. He remained in captivity for more than nine months before regaining his freedom.
Following the abduction, the U.S. Embassy in Niamey issued a security alert warning American citizens of an increased risk of kidnapping across Niger.
The development brings an end to Rideout’s lengthy captivity and comes amid continuing security concerns in the West African country.
Kidnapped American Missionary Kevin Rideout Regains Freedom After Nine Months
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