China: One person killed, seven wounded in stabbing incident in Kunming late Jan. 22

Event

An assailant armed with a knife stabbed several individuals outside a middle school attached to Yunnan Normal University in Kunming's Wuhua District late Jan. 22. One person was killed and at least seven others were wounded in the incident. Police shot and killed the attacker after he took one person hostage. The suspect's motive is not immediately clear, though the incident does not appear to be ideologically or politically motivated.

Heightened security is likely near the incident site as investigations continue. Localized business and transport disruptions are possible.

Context

Mass stabbing incidents occasionally occur in Chinese cities. Attacks are usually related to personal grievances or disputes. Perpetrators sometimes target school children, likely in an effort to maximize the psychological impact of the attacks.

Advice

Exercise caution near the scene of the incident. Heed instructions of the authorities. Plan for possible localized transport disruptions; allow additional time to reach destinations near the impact location. Remain courteous and cooperative if stopped and questioned by law enforcement personnel.