American Missionary Pilot Freed In Niger, Now In U.S. Custody
Kevin Rideout, a 50-year-old American missionary pilot kidnapped in Niamey, Niger, has been freed and is in FBI custody and is being flown to the United States, U.S. officials said Thursday.[1]
U.S. officials said he appears in good health as he is transported back to the United States while under FBI care.[1]
Kevin Rideout was kidnapped in October 2025 outside his home in Niamey, Niger.[1] U.S. and Nigerian forces killed senior Islamic State leader Abu Bilal al-Minuki in May 2026, and U.S. officials say he was directly involved in plots such as Rideout's abduction.[1]
Officials did not immediately provide details about how or where the release occurred.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- Kevin Rideout, a 50-year-old American missionary pilot, was kidnapped in October 2025 outside his home in Niamey, Niger.
- U.S. officials said on Thursday, August 13, 2026, that Rideout is in FBI custody, appears in good health, and is en route to the United States.
- U.S. and Nigerian forces killed senior Islamic State leader Abu Bilal al-Minuki in May 2026, and U.S. officials say he was directly involved in plots such as Rideout’s abduction.
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August 14, 2026