Mauritania, Mali and Niger: high risk of kidnapping
18th January 2011
The Foreign Office has warned of an increased risk of kidnapping in Mauritania, Mali and Niger and warns travellers to take precautions
A recent spate of kidnappings and sporadic terrorist attacks in Mauritania, Mali and Niger has led the Foreign Office to update travel restrictions for the countries.
In January, two French nationals were kidnapped in Niamey, the capital of Niger whilst in a restaurant, they were later killed.
During September of last year, seven foreign nationals were kidnapped and are reportedly still being held captive in Niger.
The Foreign Office has subsequently updated their advice for Mauritania, Mali and Niger warning against travel in the affected areas. Travellers should be aware of the travel restrictions in place:
Mali
Mauritania
Niger
Foreign Office Minister, Jeremy Brown asks travellers to take precautions:
“North and West Africa contains some of the most spectacular areas of natural beauty on the continent. However, the number of kidnappings is increasing. I would urge anyone travelling to any country in the area to read our travel advice very carefully.”
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