NewsWPLG Local 10August 14, 2026Miami-Dade
U.S. missionary Kevin Rideout released after nine months of captivity in Niger
American missionary Kevin Rideout has been released from captivity in Niger after being kidnapped in October 2023. He is currently in the care of U.S. officials and is expected to reunite with his family.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10Why It Matters
The release concludes a nine-month kidnapping case involving a U.S. citizen in a region currently experiencing significant political instability and shifting diplomatic alliances.
Key Facts
- Kevin Rideout was kidnapped on October 21, 2023, in Niamey, Niger.
- Rideout was held for approximately nine months before his release.
- Rideout is currently in the care of U.S. officials and is reported to be in good health.
- No armed group claimed responsibility for the initial abduction.
- The U.S. Embassy in Niamey previously issued a security alert warning of heightened kidnapping risks for U.S. citizens in the country.
- Niger is currently governed by a military junta that took power in 2023.
- The ruling military junta has ousted Western partners, including the United States, and formed a new alliance with Russia.
- In June, an attack at the Niamey airport resulted in more than 30 deaths.
Who's Mentioned
personMohamed Bazoum“Deposed democratically elected president of Niger”personKevin Rideout“American missionary kidnapped in Niger”organizationSIM International“Evangelical mission organization representing the kidnapped individual”locationNiger“West African country where the kidnapping occurred”locationNiamey“Capital city of Niger and site of the kidnapping”personDonald Trump“U.S. President who confirmed the individual is in U.S. custody”