Nigeria: Suspected pirates kidnap oil employees in Bayelsa State Nov. 28

Event

Suspected pirates attacked employees of the Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) in two separate operations on waterways in Nembe and Brass Local Government Areas (LGAs), Bayelsa State, Nov. 28. In Nembe, assailants killed three NAOC employees and one security guard. In Brass, attackers kidnapped at least six maintenance workers at around 06:00. The motive for the attacks remains unclear; there has so far been no reported ransom demand.

Authorities will likely deploy additional security forces near oil facilities and along waterways statewide in the near term and may launch targeted operations to apprehend the kidnappers. Localized disruptions such as checkpoints are likely.

Context

Authorities previously implemented a 19:00-06:00 curfew on water transportation in Bayelsa from Oct. 18 to prevent acts of piracy, kidnappings, and other criminal activity.

Advice

Heed the directives of local authorities. Plan for movement and business disruptions. Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of attacks and kidnappings. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.