This weekly update spotlights organized criminal violence in the Niger Delta with a focus on kidnap for ransom in Akwa Ibom State. Kidnapping is a prevailing security threat in the State. According to data (see map above), more than 50 kidnapping incidents and over 25 related fatalities were reported in Akwa Ibom State between January 2020 and June 2024. Recent data shows the prevalence of kidnapping in the State. In June 2024, for instance, kidnappers allegedly abducted a businessman at gunpoint along Afaha Eket Road, Eket LGA. In July, eight persons, including a naval rating, were allegedly abducted by gunmen in Ibaka community, Mbo LGA. Separately, in July, the state coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and his driver were allegedly abducted by gunmen in Uyo, the State capital. Also, in July, a driver and 18 passengers were reportedly abducted by gunmen along Azumini Road in Etim Ekpo LGA. More recently, on August 28, 2024, a kidnap kingpin who has been terrorizing many communities in Uruan and Oron LGAs was allegedly killed in a gun battle with the police in neighboring Cross River State.

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