Nigeria: Special forces rescue group of Chinese hostages in Kaduna State Dec. 17 /update 2

Event

On Dec. 19, the Nigerian government released a statement that special forces elements subordinate to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) had rescued seven Chinese hostages during an operation in the Kanfani Doka and Gwaska areas of Kaduna State Dec. 17. The victims had been abducted during a June 29 attack on a mine located in Niger State's Shiroro area; that attack also left 30 soldiers dead.

Context

There is a high threat of kidnapping across all states of Nigeria. The threat is elevated in the country's central-northwestern region, where officials have yet to rein in armed attacks and abductions. Criminals often target personnel employed at mines, dams, and other infrastructures located in rural areas. Kidnappers may expect a greater ransom for foreign employees.