Nigeria: ISWAP militants kidnap 14 people in Borno state December 4

Event

Islamic State-West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants kidnapped 14 people on a road in Borno state, between Maiduguri (Borno state) and Damaturu (Yobe state), on Wednesday night (local time), December 4. The group was reportedly kidnapped after being stopped at an ISWAP-erected roadblock on the route. Notably, two of those kidnapped are aid workers for an international humanitarian organization.

Similar incidents are possible in Borno state over the near term.

Context

Kidnappings are common in Nigeria, especially in northern states. Both Nigerians and foreign nationals have been targeted by kidnappers.

Advice

Individuals in Borno state are advised to remain vigilant, vary daily schedules and itineraries, and refrain from sharing personal information with unknown persons to limit the risk of being targeted by potential kidnappers. If attacked, remain calm, do not offer resistance, and adopt a cooperative attitude. Do everything in your power to keep the situation as calm as possible (e.g. accepted offered food, engage in conversation initiated by your captors, avoid all political or potentially inflammatory topics, etc.).

The security situation in Nigeria remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.