Kevin Rideout, an American missionary, was released on August 14, 2026, after being held captive in Niger for approximately nine months, according to BBC News and The Guardian.
Rideout was abducted by unknown assailants outside his home in Niamey, Niger's capital, in October 2025. His missionary organization, SIM International, announced his release in a statement saying he "is in good health in the care of US officials."
NPR and The Guardian reported that Rideout is expected to be reunited with his extended family soon.