Niger: Aid organization announces release of kidnapped German national Dec. 10

Event

According to a statement released Dec. 10 by aid organization Help, Dec. 10 a German national kidnapped in April 2018 has been released; the circumstances surrounding his release, including where and when he was released, and if a ransom was paid are unknown.

The victim is an engineer who was working for Help when he was kidnapped in near the town of Inates, Tillaberi Region, near the border with Mali. The statement released by Help thanked the assistance of numerous groups and organizations, including authorities in both Mali and Niger, possibly indicating that the victim had been moved across the border and held in Mali for some of his captivity. Further details are unavailable at present.

Context

The threat of kidnapping is high in Niger. This is especially true outside of urban centers. The kidnapping incident underscores the insecurity across much of the country. Islamist militants operating in the tri-border area (i.e., near the shared borders of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso) continue to engage in abductions and armed attacks. Other armed groups, comprising armed herders, cattle rustlers, and kidnapping gangs, are believed to be based across the tri-border. Nigerien security services have failed to prevent these attacks despite launching multiple security operations in the region.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of kidnapping in Niger. Heed the advice of security officials. Liaise with trusted contacts before traveling in the area. Travel in convoy, during daylight hours, and with a security escort following a full review of the route. Do not disclose itineraries. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.