This weekly update spotlights organized criminality in the Niger Delta with a focus on targeted criminal violence in Abia State. According to data (see map above), criminal violence caused more than 200 fatalities in Abia State between January 2021 and June 2023. Recent data shows an upsurge in incidents of criminal violence in the State. In May 2023, for instance, gunmen suspected to be separatist militias reportedly killed two brothers and burned their house for allegedly working as informants for the Police in Ohanku community, Aba South LGA. Also, in May, gunmen reportedly killed a man at a drinking spot along Georges Street in Aba town, Aba South LGA. In June, gunmen reportedly kidnapped a traditional ruler in Amawo Nkwo-Ogu community, Osisioma Ngwa LGA. Separately, in June, gunmen reportedly attacked a commercial bus and kidnapped many passengers including a journalist in Umuahia, the state capital. Recently, on July 25, 2023, gunmen allegedly attacked the convoy of a government official, killed two policemen and burned a vehicle at Sameck Junction near Ariaria International Market in Aba South LGA.