Nigeria: Unidentified gunmen kidnap at least 80 people in Tsafe LGA, Zamfara State, April 7

Event

Unidentified gunmen kidnapped at least 80 people, including children, in Zamfara State on April 7. The abductions reportedly took place on a farm in Wanzamai village in Tsafe Local Government Area (LGA). No casualties were immediately reported in connection with the kidnappings.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence in the surrounding areas and launch operations to apprehend the attackers and rescue the victims in the coming days. Localized transport disruptions are likely; security forces may establish roadblocks and checkpoints. Armed clashes between kidnappers and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

There is a high threat of kidnapping across all states in Nigeria. The threat is particularly acute in the northwest, where officials have failed to curtail attacks and kidnappings despite various security measures implemented, such as increased operations, curfews, and business restrictions. Most kidnappings in Nigeria are financially motivated and conducted by criminal groups (also called bandits), of varying levels of sophistication. Militant and/or extremist groups also conduct kidnappings that may be ideologically or financially motivated.

Advice

Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in and around the impacted locations. 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. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.