American missionary Kevin Rideout has been released after spending more than nine months in captivity following his abduction in Niger Republic.
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‎SIM International, the missionary organisation where Rideout serves, confirmed his release in a statement on Friday, expressing gratitude that he was safely freed.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎Following the abduction, the U.S. Embassy in Niamey issued a security alert warning American citizens of an increased risk of kidnapping across Niger.
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‎The development brings an end to Rideout’s lengthy captivity and comes amid continuing security concerns in the West African country.