An American hostage kidnapped in West Africa earlier this week was rescued during a daring military operation in Nigeria, officials said.
Philipe Nathan Walton was taken from his farm in southern Niger early Tuesday morning. Armed kidnappers had demanded a ransom from Walton’s father.
The Pentagon confirmed Saturday that Walton was rescued.
“U.S. forces conducted a hostage rescue operation during the early hours of 31 October in Northern Nigeria to recover an American citizen held hostage by a group of armed men,” Jonathan Hoffman, Pentagon spokesperson, in a statement, CBS News reported. “This American citizen is safe and is now in the care of the U.S. Department of State.”
No U.S. personnel were injured in the operation. No ransom was paid.
“Big win for our very elite U.S. Special Forces today,” President Donald Trump said on social media.
Big win for our very elite U.S. Special Forces today. Details to follow!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 31, 2020
“Our Nation salutes the courageous soldiers behind the daring nighttime rescue operation and celebrates the safe return of yet another American citizen.”
Last night, our Country’s brave warriors rescued an American hostage in Nigeria. Our Nation salutes the courageous soldiers behind the daring nighttime rescue operation and celebrates the safe return of yet another American citizen!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 31, 2020
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Cox Media Group
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