Rising Kidnappings in the Gulf of Guinea

The Gulf of Guinea surpassed the Gulf of Aden as the world’s leading piracy hotspot in 2012. Developments over the past year have confirmed that this shipping region is one that requires specific, and immediate security protocols. Piracy related kidnappings not only pose a direct threat to the safety of maritime crew, but also introduce additional costs for the shipping industry, including a rise in potential ransom demands. As Niger Delta-based gangs, the primary perpetrators of these kidnappings, have become more sophisticated in their operations, they have also become increasingly brazen in their ransom demands. Already, in 2016, to secure the release of captured crew members ransoms ranged from USD 25,000 to USD 5 million. Although these gangs presently vary in terms of size, leadership structure and geographical spread, we are seeing evidence of gangs numbering 60 or more, displaying signs of training and improved skills, and backed by a hierarchical leadership structure that stretches as far as Lagos. If left unchecked, these gangs have the capacity to continue to improve and refine operations in the Gulf of Guinea. 

At present, it is likely that the increase in kidnap for ransom attacks in 2016 speaks to a tactical shift by Gulf of Guinea-based pirates, who are eager to maintain their funding amid depressed global oil prices and current economic recession in Nigeria. Furthermore, general lawlessness in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, fuelled by increased criminality, has facilitated the resurgence and evolution of Niger Delta-based kidnap gangs. As Nigeria enters yet another year characterised by both economic and political challenges, it is unlikely that these driving forces will be addressed in 2017. Many anticipate piracy-related kidnappings to increase further.