08 Jan 2023 | 11:53 PM UTC
Nigeria: Gunmen reportedly kidnap 32 people from train station in Igueben Local Government Area, Edo State, Jan. 7
Gunmen reportedly kidnap 32 people from train station in Igueben Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria, Jan. 7; one suspect arrested.
Event
Gunmen reportedly kidnapped 32 people from Tom Akimi Train Station in Igueben Local Government Area, Edo State, Jan. 7. Police have claimed that the kidnappers were armed herdsmen, adding that the assailants shot an unspecified number of individuals at the train station during the assault. The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has closed the station until further notice.
Authorities have reportedly arrested one suspected kidnapper, and at least one person kidnapped in the incident has escaped. Security personnel have launched a search-and-rescue operation in the area to recover the remaining victims, and security forces have vowed to arrest the other kidnappers.
Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence in Igueben Local Government over the coming days. Transport disruptions are likely in areas subject to heightened security. Armed clashes between kidnappers and security forces cannot be ruled out. Additional kidnapping incidents are possible in the area over the medium term.
Context
There is a high threat of kidnapping across all states in Nigeria. Both locals and foreign nationals are regularly targeted in such incidents. Most kidnappings in Nigeria are financially motivated and conducted by criminal groups of varying levels of sophistication. Militant and/or extremist groups also conduct kidnappings that may be ideologically or financially motivated. Non-traditional kidnapping variants, such as express kidnapping and short-term extortion, frequently occur in urban centers.
Advice
Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in and around the impacted location. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. If operating in the area over the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.
