Iraq: Unidentified assailants kidnap German national in Baghdad July 20

Event

Unidentified assailants kidnapped a German national in Baghdad on Monday, July 20. The victim, named Hella Mewis, is head of the culture department of the German Goethe Institut in Baghdad, and was abducted near her office on Abu Nuwas Street.

Security operations are possible in the area in the near term.

Context

Kidnapping in Iraq is widespread and carried out by insurgents, militias and criminals alike, whose motives range from ideological to for-profit. Kidnappers can dress as members of the Iraqi security forces (ISF). Foreigners are considered prime targets by many kidnappers because of their higher ransom yields or the symbolic consequence of kidnapping.

Advice

Individuals in Baghdad are advised to monitor developments, adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and maintain a heightened sense of vigilance at all times.