Niger Delta Weekly Update for January 30 – February 05, 2022

This edition of the weekly update spotlights organized criminality in the Niger Delta with a focus on sea robbery and kidnapping in Bayelsa State. Kidnapping and sea robbery are prevalent conflict risks and security issues in the State. According to data (see map below), over 200 incidents of sea robbery and kidnapping were reported in the State between January 2018 and December 2021. Recent incidents indicate a resurgence of sea robbery and kidnapping in the State. In December 2021, for instance, kidnappers reportedly abducted a personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and four civilians working with an oil firm in Koluama community, Southern Ijaw LGA. Also, in December, sea robbers reportedly attacked a commercial boat and robbed passengers along the waterways in Twon-Brass, Brass LGA. In Janu-ary 2022, robbers reportedly attacked a commercial boat, dispossessed the passengers and made away with the boat engine in Twon-Brass. Recently, on January 20, 2022, gunmen reportedly abducted one of the state commissioners from his residence in Otuokpoti town, Ogbia LGA.