25 Jun 2017 | 08:42 AM UTC
Kyrgyzstan: Security forces foiled 17 terrorist attacks in 2016
According to security officials, 17 terrorist attacks were foiled in 2016; militants regularly arrested in 2017
Event
The Kyrgyz Security Council announced on Tuesday, June 20, that Kyrgyzstan security forces successfully foiled 17 terrorist attacks in 2016. Several suspects have been detained for planning to commit terrorist attacks in the country since the beginning of 2017. Additionally, a large number of weapons and explosive devices have been seized during security operations.
Context
Kyrgyz authorities believe that over 500 citizens from the country have left to join the transnational terrorist group the Islamic State (IS). With IS losing territory steadily in both Iraq and Syria, it is possible that more Kyrgyz foreign fighters will attempt to return home, potentially to carry out terrorist attacks.
Advice
Individuals in Kyrgyzstan are advised to exercise vigilance and remain observant of their surroundings at all times. Follow all instructions issued by local authorities and avoid crowded places if possible.
On a separate note, ethnic, political, and socio-economic tensions continue to exist in the Kyrgyz Republic, especially in the south. Supporters of terrorist groups and anti-Western, anti-Semitic extremist organizations have expressed anti-US sentiments and may attempt to target US or Western interests in the region, including in the Kyrgyz Republic.
