27 Dec 2019 | 03:24 PM UTC
Nigeria: Islamic State militants kill 11 hostages December 26
Islamic State-West Africa Province (ISWAP) kills 11 hostages on December 26; similar attacks possible over the near term
Event
On Thursday, December 26, Islamic State-West Africa Province (ISWAP) released a video showing the execution of 11 alleged Christian detainees. An earlier video stated that the hostages had been captured from Maiduguri (Borno state) and Damaturu (Yobe state). According to the militants, the execution was to avenge the recent deaths of Islamic State (IS) leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and the group's spokesman.
Similar attacks on aid workers, foreigners, and military and police personnel are likely in northeastern Nigeria over the near term.
Context
The northeastern region of Nigeria (i.e. the states of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa) is highly susceptible to attacks by Islamist militants, including from Boko Haram and Islamic State-West Africa Province (ISWAP). Though Nigerian military forces have pushed insurgents from much of their previously claimed territory, attacks have been on the rise since June 2017.
Advice
Individuals in northeastern Nigeria are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
The security environment in Nigeria remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
