Nigeria: Gunmen kidnap two foreign oil workers in Rivers state April 27

Event

A group of unidentified gunmen assaulted an oil rig in the Ogbele area of Rivers state on Saturday, April 27., kidnapping two foreign nationals and one Nigerian worker. According to security officials, the incident occurred around 08:00 (local time) on Saturday. The foreign victims have been identified as Scottish and Canadian nationals. Following the attack, additional security forces were deployed in the area to search for the kidnappers and their victims, but as of Wednesday, May 1, their location and conditions remain unknown. A heightened security presence is expected in the coming days as operations continue to find the abductees. Further attacks targeting oil facilities and workers in Rivers state are also possible in the near term.

Context

This most recent attack occurred two days after gunmen ambushed the convoy of a multinational oil company in Rivers state on Thursday, April 25. The attackers killed two police officers who were escorting the vehicles and kidnapped two workers. Nigerian authorities announced on Tuesday, April 30, that both victims had been released.

A significant number of militant groups are active in the Niger Delta region, frequently attacking oil and gas facilities. Kidnapping-for-ransom incidents are also commonplace in Nigeria. Foreign nationals, affluent locals, and diplomatic dignitaries may be particularly targeted by criminals due to their perceived wealth.

Advice

Individuals in Nigeria, especially in Rivers state, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant, report suspicious objects and behavior to police, vary daily routines and do not share personal details with unknown persons, 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.