25 Mar 2021 | 01:09 PM UTC
Mauritania: Security forces arrest assailant following hijacking at Nouakchott International Airport-Oumtounsy, March 25 /update 1
Hijacking incident concludes at Nouakchott International Airport-Oumtounsy, Mauritania, March 25 after authorities arrest assailant.
Event
A hijacking incident at Nouakchott International Airport-Oumtounsy (NKC) March 25 has concluded after security personnel arrested the assailant. The affected aircraft was empty during the hijacking period and had been parked at the facility; there are no reports of casualties. Authorities have suspended flights at NKC until further notice.
The aircraft is reportedly operated by Mauritania Airlines and it is currently unclear if it had been scheduled for takeoff prior to the incident. It is highly likely that the affected plane was an Embraer-model commercial passenger aircraft.
The hijacker had threatened to destroy the aircraft if security forces intervened before meeting demands issued.
Context
Once flights resume, disruptions are likely to persist at NKC as security personnel continue their investigations and reposition aircraft. Increased security checks may also result in delays in access and egress at NKC.
Advice
Monitor for updates on this developing situation. Confirm the status of travelers using NKC and continue to follow security force directives if near the affected area.
