Lebanon: Security forces rescue abducted girl in Barelias Feb. 22

Event

On Thursday, February 22, Lebanese intelligence security forces freed a seven-year old Syrian girl who had been abducted the previous day by unknown men in Barelias (Bekaa governorate). The assailants had reportedly demanded a ransom of USD 250,000. Further details concerning the kidnapping are not available.

Context

The risk of kidnapping is moderate but present in Lebanon. Terrorist groups operating in the country may use kidnapping to bolster political attention while criminal groups use kidnapping for ransom.

Advice

Individuals in the region are advised to monitor the situation and contact their respective diplomatic missions for further information regarding security and travel to and from Lebanon. To minimize the risk of kidnapping, individuals are advised to take the necessary precautions to avoid becoming an easy target: vary routes and schedules, maintain a high level of discretion, avoid posting personal information on social media that can be used by criminals to track targets (children, teenagers, and parents), be particularly vigilant after dark, regularly review and update your residential security, drive with windows closed and doors locked, etc.