Somalia: ICRC confirms German nurse abducted in Mogadishu /update 1

Event

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has confirmed that a female German nurse working for the organization was kidnapped in Mogadishu on Wednesday, May 2. According to the ICRC, the incident occurred at approximately 20:00 (local time) at their compound in the Wadajir district. Initial reports indicate that a private security guard working for the ICRC abducted the victim while she was eating dinner; the abductor's getaway car was reportedly later found abandoned. Several guards have been detained for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation into the abduction. Further details regarding the incident are still emerging.

Context

As of May 3, no group has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.

Advice

Individuals in Mogadishu are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. Avoid traveling at night and without an escort or security arrangements in place.

Due to the high threat of terrorism, individuals present throughout Somalia are advised to avoid government and institutional buildings as well as political events due to Al-Shabaab's tendency to target political figures and security forces. Because of extremely poor security conditions, travel should only be considered with appropriate security precautions in place.