Nigeria: Unidentified assailants ambush convoy near Buruku, in Kaduna State Dec. 22

Event

Unidentified assailants ambushed a convoy that was being escorted by police near Buruku along the A125 road connecting Kaduna and Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, Dec. 22. Preliminary reports indicate that attackers kidnapped at least 70 travelers. Police officials however announced that security forces repelled the attack and released 48 abductees. The exact number of remaining victims remains unclear. There have been no casualties or ransom demands reported yet.

Buruku is located 20 km (12 miles) west of Kaduna city.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence in the vicinity of the incident in the coming days to apprehend the attackers and rescue the remaining abductees. Localized transport disruptions, such as checkpoints, are likely along main roads. Armed clashes involving kidnappers and security forces cannot be ruled.

Context

Armed banditry is one of the primary security threats in central and northern Nigeria. Most kidnappings in the country are financially motivated and conducted by criminal groups of varying levels of sophistication. While locals are more likely to be affected, the threat to foreign nationals remains; bandits regularly resort to lethal methods.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of violence and kidnapping. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Travel only in convoy and during daylight hours. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.