Nigeria: Suspected pirates kidnap oil employees in Bayelsa State Dec. 6

Event

Suspected pirates kidnapped four employees of the Conoil oil company and one security operative of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area (LGA), Bayelsa State, Dec. 6. The victims were reportedly traveling from Yenagoa towards the Koluama area when the incident occurred. The identity of the assailants remains unclear. Unverified reports indicate that abductors have demanded N25 million for the release of the victims.

Context

The incident underscores the persistent threat to business operations in the region. Authorities previously implemented a 19:00-06:00 curfew on water transportation in Bayelsa from Oct. 18 to prevent acts of piracy, kidnappings, and other criminal activity. Despite the measure, several kidnapping incidents targeting oil employees have been reported.

Advice

Heed the directives of local authorities. Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of attacks and kidnappings. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.