January
2 January
Angola
A United Nations (UN) plane carrying one US citizen, four Angolans,
two Philippine nationals and one Namibian was shot down, according to a UN
official. No deaths or injuries were reported. Angolan authorities blamed
the attack on National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA)
rebels. UNITA officials deny shooting down the plane.
4 January
India
Unidentified Muslim militants fired four rockets at a police complex
in Pattan, Kashmir, killing one officer and his wife and seriously injuring
their five-year-old child, according to police reports.
6 January
Angola
Thirty armed UNITA rebels ambushed a vehicle, killing one Briton,
one Brazilian, and two Angolan security guards, according to reports from
the Australian-owned Cuango mine.
Sierra Leone
The Italian Embassy reported Armed Forces Revolutionary Council rebels
kidnapped two Italian missionaries. The missionaries were rescued on 13 January
by government-sponsored forces.
8 January
South Africa
Five unidentified youths firebombed a Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)
restaurant in Cape Town, causing major damage but no injuries, according to
a KFC representative. No one claimed responsibility.
9 January
Yemen
Unidentified assailants abducted a British oil worker from an oilfield
operated by a U.S. company, according to press reports. On 13 January the kidnappers
released the hostage unharmed.
11 January
Colombia
In Chinacota two vacationing Italian citizens and one Colombian were
kidnapped at a false roadblock, according to local media reports. On 9 March
in Norte de Santander, the National Liberation Army (ELN) released one of
the Italian hostages.
12 January
Pakistan
Unidentified assailants entered the Peshawar home of Abdul Haq, a
well-known Afghan moderate, and murdered his wife, 11-year-old son, and a
guard. Police reported that Haq was not at home and the victims were sleeping
when the attack occurred. No one claimed responsibility.
Sierra Leone
Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels kidnapped a Spanish missionary,
according to reports from the Xaverian Monastic Order. On 22 January church
officials reported soldiers from the Economic Community of West African States
Cease-Fire Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) rescued the missionary.
17 January
Yemen
Armed tribesmen kidnapped two Dutch aid workers, their two sons, and
two British aid workers. The kidnappers demanded the release of an imprisoned
tribesman, according to news reports. On 2 February the six hostages were
released unharmed.
Yemen
Armed tribesmen attempted to kidnap two US Embassy employees as they
drove to work. The victims drove around their attackers and escaped, according
to the Embassy.
18 January
Bangladesh
Two assailants attempted to assassinate celebrated Bangladeshi poet
Samsur Rahman, according to local police. Rahman, who has been outspoken against
Islamic extremism, escaped unharmed, but his wife suffered knife wounds. Police
arrested one Pakistani and one South African, who told investigators that
they received financial support from Usama Bin Ladin for training and recruiting
mujahidin in Bangladesh. Police suspect the Harakat ul-Jihad Islami
(HUJI) is responsible and arrested at least 47 members of the HUJI and Harakat
ul-Mujahidin (HUM).
25 January
Sierra Leone
Military sources reported RUF rebels robbed and kidnapped a Japanese
businessman. On 29 January the RUF released the hostage.
26 January
Venezuela
In the Alto Apure region, the ELN kidnapped five Venezuelan engineers
working for the Venezuelan Petroleum Company. The ELN released one hostage
on 15 February and the four others two days later.
27 January
Yemen
Tribesmen kidnapped three German nationals and five Yemenis, according
to press reports. Kidnapped were a German midwife, her Yemeni husband and
three children, her visiting mother and brother, and their driver. On 28 January
the kidnappers released the five Yemeni citizens. No demands were made for
the release of the German hostages. The German foreign minister urged Yemeni
officials to avoid any rescue attempts that would endanger the hostages.
31 January
Yemen
Tribesmen abducted a British oil worker employed by the US-owned Hunt
Oil, releasing him six hours later, according to news reports.
February
8 February
Greece
A bomb exploded near the Turkish Consulate in Komotini, wounding a
member of the bomb squad and causing minor damage. The US Embassy reported
that a telephone caller to local authorities warned of and later claimed responsibility
for the bomb on behalf of a group called the Support to Ocalan--The Hawks
of Thrace.
9 February
India
Police reported that suspected Muslim militants threw a grenade at
a security patrol in Pulwama Chowk, injuring 12 civilians and two security
personnel.
Nigeria
Officials for an unidentified oil company reported that unknown assailants
kidnapped two employees, one British and one Italian. The Italian citizen
was released shortly after being abducted. No demands were made, and no group
claimed responsibility.
10 February
Angola
Church officials reported UNITA rebels kidnapped four persons. The
victims, two Portuguese nationals and two Spaniards, work for Navacong, a
company tasked with renovating M'Banza Congo's public infrastructure. The
rebels kidnapped the victims from a church where they had sought shelter from
intense fighting between government forces and UNITA militants.
11 February
Angola
A representative of SDM/Ashton mining company reported UNITA rebels
attacked the scout vehicle for a convoy of diamond mine vehicles, killing
three Angolan security guards and wounding five others. Angolan and Australian
mining companies jointly own SDM/Aston mining.
12 February
Sierra Leone
The Rome-based news agency, MISNA, reported the RUF kidnapped an Italian
missionary from a church. No demands were made. The rebels released the hostage
unharmed on 8 April.
13 February
India
According to authorities, suspected Lashkar-I-Tayyiba militants attacked
a village, killing a family of four and injuring one other person. The victims
were relatives of a member of the local village defense committee.
14 February
Nigeria
Officials for Shell oil company reported three armed youths kidnapped
one British employee and his young son. The captors released their victims
unharmed on 15 February. No ransom was paid, and no one claimed responsibility.
Uganda
Police reported a pipe bomb exploded inside a bar, killing five persons
and injuring 35 others. One Ethiopian and four Ugandan nationals died in the
blast, and one US citizen working for USAID, two Swiss nationals, one Pakistani,
one Ethiopian, and 27 Ugandans were injured. Eyewitnesses stated two unidentified
Asians and one Ugandan police officer also were wounded. The explosion caused
extensive damage to the bar. Ugandan authorities blamed the attack on the
Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).
15 February
India
Police reported that Muslim militants shot and critically injured
the owner of a video shop in Srinagar, Kashmir.
India
In an attempt to ban Western broadcasts, Muslim militants shot and
wounded three cable television operators in Srinagar, Kashmir, according to
police. The operators were shot in the legs and ordered to broadcast only
news and current affairs.
India
A bomb exploded in a crowded marketplace in Srinagar, Kashmir, injuring
six persons. Police suspect Muslim militants were responsible.
16 February
Austria
Kurdish protesters stormed and occupied the Greek Embassy in Vienna,
taking the Greek Ambassador and six other persons hostage. Several hours later
the protesters released the hostages and left the Embassy. The attack followed
the Turkish Government's announcement of the successful capture of the Kurdistan
Workers' Party (PKK) leader Abdullah Ocalan.
France
Sixteen Kurdish protesters occupied the Kenyan Embassy in Paris and
took seven Kenyan officials hostage. According to press reports, local police
were able to end the occupation and gain the hostages' release without injuries.
Germany
Kurdish protesters occupied the Kenyan Embassy in Bonn and held one
person hostage for 12 hours before surrendering to police, according to press
reports.
Germany
Approximately 40 Kurdish protesters stormed the Kenyan National Tourist
office in Frankfurt and took four employees hostage. The protesters released
the hostages several hours after being assured no arrests would be made.
Germany
Approximately 75 Kurdish protesters occupied a travel agency located
in a building housing the Greek Consulate in Leipzig. Three travel agents
were held hostage until authorities stormed the premises and freed them, according
to press reports.
Germany
According to press reports, Kurdish protesters occupied the Greek
Embassy in Bonn and held one person hostage for 12 hours before surrendering
to police.
Italy
Approximately 30 Kurdish protesters occupied the Greek Consulate in
Milan and held six persons hostage for four hours before surrendering, according
to press reports.
Netherlands
Approximately 150 Kurdish protesters stormed the Greek Ambassador's
residence in The Hague, taking the Ambassador's wife, their eight-year-old
son, and a Filipino servant hostage. The protesters released the hostages
early the next day and were arrested.
Switzerland
According to media reports, Kurdish protesters stormed the Greek Consulate
in Zurich, taking the building's owner and a Swiss police officer hostage.
On 17 February, US Embassy officials reported the release of both hostages
unharmed.
United Kingdom
Approximately 100 Kurdish protesters stormed and occupied the Greek
Embassy in London, taking one night watchman hostage. On 18 February the protesters
left the Greek Embassy and surrendered to British authorities.
17 February
Germany
Approximately 200 Kurdish protesters armed with clubs broke into the
Israeli Consulate in Berlin and briefly took one Consulate worker hostage.
Israeli guards shot and killed three protesters and wounded 15 others during
the attack.
18 February
Colombia
Local press reported the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)
kidnapped two Spaniards, one Algerian, and two Colombians. On 2 November,
FARC rebels released the Spaniards and the Algerian unharmed.
Sudan
Sudanese officials reported the Sudan People's Liberation Front (SPLA)
kidnapped seven International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) workers. Two
hostages were Swiss citizens and five were Sudanese nationals. On 12 March
the rebels released the two Swiss nationals. The SPLA executed the five Sudanese
hostages on 1 April.
20 February
India
Indian press reported that Muslim militants massacred 20 persons in
two districts in Jammu. A military spokesman said the Lashkar-I-Tayyiba is
suspected.
21 February
Colombia
The FARC kidnapped two Spanish citizens and seven Colombians, according
to a Colombian antikidnapping unit. The rebels released one Spanish hostage
and two Colombians and demanded 300 million pesetas for the release of the
second Spanish hostage. The rebels released the Spanish hostage on 28 February.
No ransom was paid.
22 February
India
Police reported that suspected Muslim militants shot and killed a
politician from the National Conference party in Kashmir.
India
Suspected Muslim militants killed two persons and wounded two others
in Jigrayi, Kashmir, according to police reports.
India
In Udhampur District, Kashmir, police reported that suspected Lashkar-I-Tayyiba
militants killed three persons and shot one other.
24 February
Nigeria
The US Embassy reported armed youths kidnapped a US citizen, holding
him for ransom. A local militant group rescued the hostage but then demanded
ransom for his release. Bristow Helicopters, the victim's employer, paid the
demanded $53,000. The group released the hostage unharmed on 4 March.
25 February
Colombia
The FARC kidnapped three US citizens, according to media reports.
The victims worked for the Hawaii-based Pacific Cultural Conservancy International.
On 4 March the bodies of the three victims were found in Venezuela. FARC leaders
claimed rogue elements within the organization were responsible.
26 February
Colombia
Police reported an unidentified assailant detonated a powerful explosive
device at the headquarters of the Colombian Daily Company, a subsidiary of
Swiss-owned Nestle Multinational. The explosion caused major damage but no
injuries.
India
Official sources reported that unidentified militants abducted and
killed five police officers near Hindwara, Kashmir.
28 February
Zambia
The US Embassy reported 16 bombs exploded in and around Lusaka. An
explosion inside the Angolan Embassy killed one person and caused major damage.
Other bombs detonated near major water pipes and powerlines and in parks and
residential districts, injuring two persons and causing major damage. Bomb
experts detonated five more bombs and defused two others. No one claimed responsibility.
Zambian officials blame agents of neighboring Angola.
March
March
Colombia
The ICRC reported a French citizen died of natural causes while a
captive of the ELN. The ELN had kidnapped the French national on 23 November
1998.
1 March
Uganda
According to French diplomatic reports, 150 armed Hutu rebels attacked
three tourist camps, killed four Ugandans, and abducted three US citizens,
six Britons, three New Zealanders, two Danish citizens, one Australian, and
one Canadian national. On 2 March, US Embassy officials reported the Hutu
rebels killed two US citizens, four Britons, and two New Zealanders. The rebels
released the remaining hostages.
2 March
Nigeria
The US Embassy reported at least 20 armed assailants attacked a compound
housing a large Italian construction company and its workers, injuring six
persons. No group claimed responsibility.
7 March
Colombia
Local press reported suspected guerrillas from the ELN or the FARC
kidnapped an Argentine citizen from a false checkpoint. No demands were made.
Colombia
Local press reported the ELN or the FARC kidnapped one Swiss citizen
and seven Colombians from a false checkpoint. No one claimed responsibility.
9 March
Nigeria
The US Embassy reported unidentified assailants kidnapped a US citizen
from his office. No demands were made, and no one claimed responsibility.
Venezuela
Local press reported suspected ELN or FARC guerrillas attacked a Venezuelan
patrol unit, injuring one civilian and kidnapping three others.
10 March
Angola
Government officials reported an unidentified group kidnapped five
oil workers--two French citizens, two Portuguese nationals, and one Angolan.
According to local press, all hostages were released unharmed on 7 July. Members
of the Front for the Liberation of Cabinda (FLEC) may be responsible.
11 March
India
Unidentified militants shot and killed a man and his two daughters
and wounded his wife and three other relatives in Srinagar, Kashmir, according
to Indian officials.
23 March
Colombia
The US Embassy reported armed guerrillas kidnapped a US citizen in
Boyaca. The ELN claimed responsibility and demanded $400,000 ransom. On 20
July, ELN rebels released the hostage unharmed following a ransom payment
of $48,000.
Colombia
Government officials in Antioquia reported the FARC kidnapped two
engineers--one German and one Swiss--from the El Cairo Cement Works. No demands
were made.
25 March
Macedonia
In Skopje approximately 200 protesters occupied the US Embassy compound,
according to military reporting. The protesters, armed with rocks and Molotov
cocktails, set fire to several diplomatic vehicles, causing major damage to
the exterior of the Embassy. The protesters did not gain entry into the Embassy,
and police eventually dispersed them.
26 March
Greece
The US Embassy reported approximately 500 Greek and Serbian protesters
broke down the gate at the British Embassy in Athens and entered the British
Ambassador's residence, injuring three local guards and causing major damage.
Serbia
Serbian demonstrators burned down the United States Information Service
(USIS) American center.
27 March
Pakistan
In Peshawar the US Embassy reported unidentified assailants assassinated
Mohammed Jehanzeb, an Afghan national and secretary to Taliban opponent Haji
Qadir. Qadir was the brother of Afghan moderate Abdul Haq, whose wife and
son were murdered in Peshawar on 12 January.
Uganda
In Kisoro suspected Rwandan rebels armed with machetes attacked a
village, killing three persons. According to military reporting, the attackers
crossed into Uganda from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
28 March
India
Police reported suspected Muslim militants threw a grenade into a
crowd in Anantnag, injuring at least 28 persons.
April
1 April
India
Suspected Muslim militants shot and killed three family members in
their home in Kashmir, according to police reports.
2 April
India
In Poonch District, Kashmir, police reported suspected Muslim militants
shot and killed five family members.
3 April
Bosnia-Herzegovina
According to press accounts, unidentified assailants opened fire on
a Stabilization Force (SFOR) vehicle carrying two Bosnian employees, injuring
one. No one claimed responsibility, but authorities believe SFOR was the target.
Ethiopia
Government officials in Addis Ababa reported an unidentified armed
group kidnapped a French aid worker, two Ethiopian staff workers, and four
Somalis. On 4 May the Ogaden National Liberation Front released the French
diplomat.
9 April
Colombia
The ELN abducted two Swiss nationals, one Israeli, and one Briton
in Cauca Department, according to press accounts. The British hostage escaped
on 8 May. The ELN released the Israeli and one Swiss hostage on 15 May.
12 April
Colombia
Police in Bucaramanga reported the ELN hijacked Avianca Airlines flight
9463 carrying one US citizen, one Italian, one Ecuadorian, and several Colombians.
On 13 April six hostages were released, three more on 16 April, and seven
more on 7 May. The ELN released eight additional hostages on 18 June, seven
on 5 September, and the US citizen on 2 October.
Venezuela
The FARC kidnapped a rancher in Cunaviche, Apue State, according to
press accounts. The victim reported that the FARC released him in Caracolito,
Norte De Santander Department, on 18 April.
14 April
Angola
Unidentified assailants attacked a Save the Children vehicle in Salina,
killing six Angolans, according to US Embassy reporting. UNITA is suspected.
15 April
Greece
Two explosive devices detonated at the Detroit Motors car dealership
in Athens, causing no injuries but extensive damage. A group calling itself
the Enraged Anarchists claimed responsibility.
20 April
Colombia
On the Pamplona-Bucaramanga road, FARC guerrillas stopped four vehicles
at a fake roadblock, kidnapping four prison guards and two truck drivers.
The FARC guerrillas also stole three tractor-trailers transporting 27 vehicles
from Venezuela and a cargo truck. The rebels later released the two drivers.
India
In Rajauri, Kashmir, a bomb exploded in a goldsmith shop, killing
five persons, injuring 47 others, and causing major damage, according to press
reports. No one claimed responsibility, but police suspect Muslim militants.
21 April
Liberia
Government officials reported unidentified assailants from Guinea
crossed the border and attacked the town of Voinjama, kidnapping the visiting
Dutch Ambassador, the First Secretary of Norway, a European Union representative,
and 17 aid workers. The hostages were released later that day. Eyewitnesses
stated the assailants were members of the militia groups ULIMO-K and ULIMO-J.
27 April
Greece
A bomb exploded at the Intercontinental Hotel, killing one person
and injuring one other, according to press reports.
30 April
India
In Kupwara District in Kashmir, Muslim militants stormed the home
of a police informant, killing him and eight other persons and wounding three
others, according to press accounts.
May
11 May
India
Suspected Muslim militants killed four members of one family in Kupwara
District, Kashmir, according to police reports.
13 May
Angola
UNITA fired surface-to-air missiles to bring down a privately owned
plane, abducting the three Russian crewmembers and three Angolan passengers,
according to the US Embassy.
Colombia
Four unidentified assailants kidnapped a US helicopter technician
in Yopal, according to press accounts. Police suspect the FARC or ELN.
15 May
Russia
The ICRC reported unidentified gunmen abducted two employees--one
New Zealander and one Russian. The Russian was released the same day. No one
claimed responsibility, and no demands were made. The New Zealander was released
on 19 July.
19 May
India
The press reported an explosion on a bus in Jammu killed one person,
injured eight others, and destroyed six buses, two tankers, and a gas pump.
Kashmiri militants are suspected.
30 May
Colombia
In Cali local press reported heavily armed ELN militants attacked
a church in the neighborhood of Ciudad Jardin, kidnapping 160 persons, including
six US citizens and one French national. The rebels released approximately
80 persons, including three US citizens, later that day. On 3 June the ELN
released an additional five hostages. On 15 June the rebels released 33 hostages
including two US citizens, according to US Embassy reporting. On 10 December
local press reported the rebels released the remaining hostages unharmed.
June
6 June
Colombia
The US Embassy reported ELN militants kidnapped nine persons, including
one US citizen, near Barranquilla. On 24 September, ELN militants released
the US citizen.
7 June
Spain
Authorities safely defused a letter bomb sent to an Italian diplomat
in Burgos. The Italian Red Brigades were suspected.
Spain
Authorities safely defused a letter bomb sent to the Italian Consulate
in Barcelona. Authorities suspect the Italian Red Brigades.
8 June
Spain
Authorities safely defused a letter bomb sent to the Italian Consulate
in Zaragoza. Authorities suspect the Italian Red Brigades.
9 June
Iraq
In Baghdad, according to press reports, a car bomb exploded next to
a bus carrying members of the Iranian opposition movement Mujahedin-e-Khalq
Organization (MEK), killing seven members and injuring 23 others, including
15 Iraqi civilians. MEK officials suspect the Iranian Government is responsible.
12 June
Philippines
According to press reports, in Zamboanga armed militants kidnapped
two Belgium nationals. The Abu Sayyaf Group and the separatist Moro Islamic
Liberation Front (MILF) were suspected. One Belgian was released on 18 June
and the other on 23 June.
13 June
Serbia
Suspected Serbian gunmen shot and killed two German journalists, according
to military reporting. No one claimed responsibility.
15 June
Iran
According to Iranian Government authorities, three armed assailants
kidnapped three Italian steel experts in Bam. On 20 June the hostages were
released unharmed.
16 June
United Kingdom
In Whitely Bay, Tyneside, an unidentified assailant shot and wounded
a former Special Branch Agent. Authorities suspect the Irish Republican Army's
Belfast Brigade was responsible.
22 June
India
The United Liberation Front of Assam, with the backing of Pakistan's
Inter-Service Intelligence, claimed responsibility for the bombing at the
Julpaiguri railroad station that killed 10 persons and injured 80 others,
according to senior government officials.
27 June
Nigeria
In Port Harcourt, a Royal Dutch Shell official reported five heavily
armed youths stormed a Shell oil platform, kidnapping one US citizen, one
Nigerian national, and one Australian citizen, and causing undetermined damage.
The assailants hijacked a helicopter and forced the hostages to fly them to
a village near Warri. On 16 July an Australian Government official reported
the youths released the hostages unharmed for an undisclosed ransom. A group
calling itself "Enough is Enough in the Niger River" claimed responsibility.
29 June
Indonesia
Armed militants attacked a United Nations Mission in an East Timor
outpost, injuring 12 persons, according to press reports.
Nigeria
According to US Embassy officials, armed militants kidnapped two Indian
nationals as they drove through the city of Lagos. On 14 July the militants
released the hostages unharmed.
Colombia
Near Medellin, US Embassy officials reported six armed FARC rebels
kidnapped a US citizen from his home in Antioquia Department. The rebels demanded
$60,000. On 26 July, FARC rebels released the hostage unharmed, but no ransom
was paid.
30 June
Angola
Local press reported UNITA rebels shot down an Angolan-owned plane
with five Russian crewmen aboard near Capenda-Camulemba. One crewmember died
when the plane crashed in UNITA-held territory. A UNITA official confirmed
they captured the four crewmen. No demands were made for the hostages' release.
30 June
Burundi
World Food Program (WFP) officials reported suspected Hutu rebels
fired on a WFP vehicle near Bujumbura, injuring one person.
July
1 July
Nigeria
Near Aleibiri, US Embassy officials reported armed Oboro youths kidnapped
one US citizen, one British national, and one Nigerian citizen. The assailants
demanded a ransom of $80,000 for the release of the hostages. On 12 July the
youths released the hostages unharmed. No ransom was paid.
4 July
Indonesia
Armed militants ambushed a United Nations convoy kidnapping an Australian
and 15 others. A driver and two other persons were wounded. The militants
are believed to be members of the Besi Merah Putih Militia group.
6 July
Angola
Local press reported UNITA rebels ambushed a German humanitarian convoy,
killing 15 persons, injuring 25 others, and causing major damage. The convoy
was transporting goods for Catholic Relief Service.
9 July
Georgia
A bomb exploded outside the United Nations Observer Mission in Georgia
in Sukhumi, causing minor damage. According to military reporting, authorities
discovered and safely defused a second bomb near the blast site. No one claimed
responsibility.
16 July
Yemen
Tribesmen in Omran kidnapped four Belgian tourists, according to local
officials. On 18 July the four hostages were released unharmed. No one claimed
responsibility.
20 July
Nigeria
A Royal Dutch Shell representative reported armed youths stormed an
oil rig in Osoko, detaining seven British nationals and 57 Nigerian citizens.
No one was injured. On 22 July the youths released the hostages unharmed.
21 July
Angola
According to Angolan military sources, UNITA militants fired mortars
and long-range artillery at World Food Program and International Committee
for the Red Cross aircraft parked at the Huambo airport. No one was injured,
and no damage occurred.
23 July
Germany
According to police officials, an unidentified assailant threw a bomb
into a Turkish travel agency in Munich, injuring two persons and causing minor
damage. Authorities suspect the attack was connected to the conviction of
PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan.
27 July
Pakistan
According to police reports, a bomb exploded on a passenger bus, killing
eight persons and wounding 40 others. No one claimed responsibility.
28 July
Yemen
In Shabwa Province, armed tribesmen kidnapped a Canadian citizen working
on the US-owned Hunt Oil pipeline, according to authorities. Tribesmen released
the hostage unharmed the following day.
30 July
Venezuela
US Embassy officials reported suspected FARC rebels hijacked a domestic
Avior Express flight out of Barinas. No one was injured in the attack. On
10 August local press reported FARC rebels released the hostages unharmed
near the Colombian-Venezuelan border. No ransom was paid. FARC officials denied
hijacking the plane.
August
4 August
Sierra Leone
UN officials reported an Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC)
faction kidnapped 33 UN representatives near Occra Hills. The hostages included
one US citizen, five British soldiers, one Canadian citizen, one representative
from Ghana, one military officer from Russia, one officer from Kyrgystan,
one officer from Zambia, one officer from Malaysia, a local Bishop, two UNICEF
officials, two local journalists, and 16 Sierra Leonean nationals. No one
was injured in the attack. The rebels demanded the release of imprisoned leader
John Paul Karoma. On 5 August the rebels released one US citizen and one local
journalist. On 10 August the rebels released all remaining hostages.
6 August
Kyrgyzstan
In the Batken district, according to local press, unidentified Tajikistani
rebels kidnapped four Kyrgyzstani Government officials. On 13 August the rebels
released the hostages unharmed for an unspecified amount of ransom.
10 August
Nigeria
In the Niger-Delta Region, local press reported armed youths kidnapped
three British nationals from a US-operated oil platform. No one was injured,
and no one claimed responsibility. On 11 August the youths released the hostages
unharmed. No ransom was paid.In a different incident, a spokesperson for the
British-owned Niger-Benue Transport Company reported unidentified youths kidnapped
two British citizens in the Niger-Delta Region. No one claimed responsibility,
and no demands were made. The hostages were released on 11 August.
11 August
Liberia
In Kolahun the British Foreign Office reported an armed gang kidnapped
four British nationals, one Norwegian citizen, and one Italian national. The
victims worked for an unidentified humanitarian aid service. On 13 August
a British official reported the rebels released all the hostages unharmed.
No one claimed responsibility.
14 August
Pakistan
According to police reports, a bomb exploded in a van in Dina, killing
six persons and injuring 14 others.
15 August
Iran
In Kerman, according to press reports, armed militants kidnapped four
tourists, three Spanish and one Italian. On 31 August the militants released
the hostages unharmed. No one claimed responsibility.
16 August
Russia
In Dagestan local police reported unidentified assailants kidnapped
two Polish citizens and two Russian nationals. The kidnappers demanded $50,000
ransom. On 7 January 2000 the Chechen Parliament reported the hostages were
released unharmed in December.
21 August
Ethiopia
Near Dire Dawa, US Embassy officials reported suspected al-Ittihad
al-Islami operatives detonated a mine beneath a train carrying 400 Djiboutian
nationals. The explosion severely wounded two Ethiopian conductors, destroyed
one locomotive, and caused extensive damage to the railway line, shutting
it down for four days. No one claimed responsibility.
22 August
Kyrgyzstan
In Bishkek, government officials reported unidentified Uzbekistani
gunmen kidnapped four Japanese geologists, their interpreter, and eight Kyrgyzstani
soldiers. On 13 October four Kyrgyzstani soldiers were released unharmed.
On 18 October another two Kyrgyzstani hostages were freed. On 25 October the
remaining hostages were released unharmed. No ransom was paid.
Yemen
In Marib Governorate, according to police reports, armed tribesmen
kidnapped a French diplomat and his wife when the driver of their vehicle
stopped for late afternoon prayers. On 2 September the hostages were released
unharmed. No one claimed responsibility.
23 August
Venezuela
Colombian Embassy officials reported a small bomb exploded outside
the Colombian Consulate in Caracas, causing minor damage but no injuries.
Security officials defused a second explosive device at the Consulate. Venezuelan
police located and safely defused a bomb found on the first floor of Credival
Tower, the building housing the Colombian Embassy. The Tupamaro Revolutionary
Movement claimed responsibility.
27 August
Russia
In Volograd unidentified assailants kidnapped the General Director
of the Coca Cola Volograd Company and demanded a $50,000 ransom, according
to police officials. The hostage, a Filipino citizen, escaped later the same
day. No one claimed responsibility.
28 August
Colombia
According to police officials, near Yopal City, police suspected FARC
or ELN militants abducted a Scottish oil engineer working for the US-UK owned
British Petroleum-Amoco Corporation. No one claimed responsibility, and no
demands were made.
30 August
India
Muslim separatists opened fire on a taxi, killing four police officers
and their driver in Hanjiweera, according to police authorities.
31 August
Colombia
Local press reported armed FARC militants stormed the Anchicaya hydroelectric
plant near Buenaventura, detaining 168 persons. No one was injured. The rebels
released several hostages unharmed later that day. The FARC released 58 hostages
on 4 September and all remaining hostages unharmed on 5 September. The Pacific
Energy Enterprise power plant is operated jointly by US, Colombian, and Venezuelan
companies.
September
6 September
Yemen
Armed tribesmen kidnapped three Sudanese teachers in the Marib region,
according to press reports. On 17 September the tribesmen released the teachers
unharmed.
8 September
India
On the Surankote-Poonch Road a bomb exploded in front of a motorcade
carrying the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, causing no injuries or damage.
According to military reporting Muslim militants were suspected.
India
A bomb exploded at a polling booth in Thanamandi, Kashmir, causing
major damage but no injuries. Military officials suspect Muslim separatists.
Nigeria
In Bayelsa State, according to local press, gunmen kidnapped an Indian
citizen. On 15 September the gunmen released the hostage unharmed. No one
claimed responsibility, no demands were made, and no ransom was paid. Ijaw
youths were suspected.
9 September
India
A Kashmiri militant threw a handgrenade into a jeep, injuring two
police officers and eight other individuals in Doda, according to military
reporting.
11 September
Ecuador
Police officials reported 25 to 30 FARC rebels kidnapped 12 Westerners.
Eight hostages, one US citizen and seven Canadian nationals, worked for a
US-based oil pipeline company. The other hostages, three Spanish nationals
and one Belgian citizen, were tourists. Ecuadorian police rescued one Canadian
hostage later that day. No demands were made. FARC officials denied participating
in the kidnapping.
13 September
India
Near Tangmarg, Muslim insurgents ambushed a convoy carrying a government
minister, injuring a bodyguard and three civilians, according to military
reporting. The Hizbul Mujahedin group claimed responsibility
17 September
India
According to press reports, an unidentified militant threw a handgrenade
at an army patrol near a bus station in Shopian, injuring two soldiers and
24 other persons. Muslim militants were suspected.
India
Local authorities reported that Muslim militants shot and killed a
politician in Baramulla.
20 September
India
Unidentified militants shot and killed a National Conference party
member in his home, according to press reports. Muslim militants were suspected.
29 September
India
According to press reports, reported unidentified militants threw
grenades at a government building in Srinagar, killing one police officer
and causing undetermined damage. The Harakat ul-Mujahidin (HUM) claimed responsibility.
Nicaragua
US Embassy officials reported rebels belonging to the Andres Castro
United Front (FUAC) kidnapped one Canadian citizen and one Nicaraguan military
officer in Bonanza Municipality. The rebels demanded $1 million and a renegotiation
of agreements made between the FUAC and the Nicaraguan Government in 1997.
October
1 October
India
Suspected Muslim militants shot and killed a local politician at his
residence, according to press sources.
Thailand
Five armed Burmese dissidents stormed the Burmese Embassy in Bangkok,
taking 89 persons hostage. The hostages included three French nationals, three
Canadians, one German, one US citizen, and several citizens from Malaysia,
Singapore, and Thailand. The group, calling itself the Vigorous Burmese Student
Warriors, demanded the release of all political prisoners held in Burma. On
2 October the hostages were released unharmed, and the militants were flown
to the Burmese border.
4 October
India
Local police reported a landmine exploded near a polling station in
Pampore, killing one election officer, wounding one other, and injuring three
police officers. Authorities suspect Muslim militants.
8 October
Nigeria
The US Embassy reported armed youths attacked a US oil-company compound
housing employees from the United States, United Kingdom, and Nigeria. The
attackers injured four US citizens and four Nigerian nationals and caused
massive damage to the compound. The youths demanded the oil facility replace
its existing Nigerian staff with local workers. On 11 October government officials
reported the attackers left the compound without further incident.
12 October
Burundi
US Embassy officials reported suspected Rwandan Hutu rebels attacked
humanitarian aid workers in Rutana. One Chilean UNICEF official, one Dutch
World Food Program employee, four local military officers, and six Burundi
nationals died in the attack. One Belgian and one Burundi national working
for the UN and four Burundi citizens were wounded. No one claimed responsibility.
13 October
Georgia
In Sukhumi unidentified masked gunmen kidnapped six UN military observers--from
Germany, the Czech Republic, Greece, Switzerland, Sweden, and Uruguay. A Georgian
interpreter also was kidnapped. The abductors demanded a $250,000 ransom.
Four hostages were released unharmed on 14 October, and the remaining three
hostages were freed the next day.
15 October
Sierra Leone
In Masombo the Missionary News Agency reported unidentified persons
kidnapped three clergymen--two Italian and one Sierra Leonian. No one claimed
responsibility, and no demands were made. AFRC rebels are suspected.
21 October
India
Kashmiri militants kidnapped and beheaded a father and daughter suspected
of spying for the Indian Army in Kupwara, according to government officials.
26 October
Yemen
Unidentified armed tribesmen kidnapped three US citizens. The tribesmen
demanded the government release five fellow tribesmen, according to press
reports. The hostages were released unharmed on 28 October.
28 October
India
Local police reported Muslim militants fired six grenades at the secretariat
building, killing one person and injuring 11 others.
30 October
Nigeria
Local press reported armed youths seized a helicopter near Warri,
kidnapping three British citizens. The kidnappers forced the hostages, pilots
for the petroleum company Royal Dutch Shell, to fly to an undisclosed location.
No demands were made, but negotiations for release of the hostages were initiated.
November
1 November
Nigeria
US Embassy officials reported armed youths seized a US vessel near
Bonny Island, kidnapping one US citizen, one Polish national, and 12 Nigerian
locals. No one was injured in the attack, and the ship sustained minimal damage.
The attackers released all the hostages unharmed on 3 November. No one claimed
responsibility.
3 November
Panama
Police officials reported suspected FARC rebels hijacked two Panamanian
helicopters carrying four Colombian nationals, two Ecuadorian citizens, and
two Panamanian pilots near Colon. No one was injured in the attack. The guerrillas
released all the hostages unharmed later that day but retained the helicopters.
8 November
Nigeria
The US Embassy reported that 14 youths armed with machetes boarded
a Belize-owned vessel near Escravos, in Delta State, and kidnapped one US
citizen and one Nigerian national. The youths released the hostages unharmed
on 12 November. No ransom was paid.
10 November
Colombia
A representative for the International Committee for the Red Cross
(ICRC) reported FARC militants kidnapped a British national working for the
ICRC. On 14 November the rebels released the hostage unharmed following a
meeting between FARC and ICRC officials. No ransom was paid.
12 November
India
A bomb exploded on the Punjab Express bound for New Delhi, killing
13 persons and injuring some 50 others. No one claimed responsibility, but
authorities suspect Muslim separatists were responsible.
Pakistan
According to local press accounts, unidentified assailants fired seven
rockets from three vehicles parked at various locations, injuring six persons
and causing minor damage. One vehicle was parked in a lot at the US Cultural
center, another near the building housing UN offices, and the third near the
US Embassy.
23 November
India
Local police reported a bomb exploded outside a political party headquarters
in Srinagar, injuring five persons and causing major damage. Tehrik-i-Jihad
claimed responsibility.
December
7 December
Sierra Leone
Near Buedu, Revolutionary United Front militants kidnapped one German
national and one Belgian citizen, both of whom work for the humanitarian group
Doctors Without Borders (Medicins Sans Frontieres). No one was injured in
the attack. The rebels released both hostages unharmed on 16 December. No
ransom was paid.
18 December
Pakistan
A bomb exploded in a marketplace, killing 10 persons, injuring 17
others, and causing major damage, according to press reports.
22 December
India
An unidentified militant lobbed a grenade into a crowd in Anatnag,
injuring 12 persons, according to press reports. Authorities suspect Muslim
separatists were responsible.
23 December
Colombia
In the Santander Mountain region, local press reported Popular Liberation
Army militants kidnapped a US citizen. After deciding that their captive had
no ties to the US Government, the rebels released the hostage unharmed on
13 January 2000. No ransom was paid.
24 December
Colombia
US Embassy officials reported a bomb exploded outside the Colombo-American
Bi-National Center in Cali, causing an unreported number of minor injuries
and major damage to the building. A group calling itself the Colombian Patriotic
Resistance claimed responsibility, but police suspect ELN members carried
out the attack.
Nepal
Five heavily armed militants hijacked an Indian Airlines Airbus carrying
189 passengers and 11 crewmembers en route from Katmandu to New Delhi. After
refueling in Pakistan, the plane was diverted to Dubai, United Arab Emirates,
where the hijackers released 27 hostages along with the body of a hostage
they had murdered. The hijackers then flew to Qandahar, Afghanistan, and demanded
the release of 36 militants imprisoned in India. On 31 December the Indian
Government agreed to release three imprisoned militants in exchange for the
hostages' safe return. The plane and remaining hostages were released unharmed
later that day.
31 December
Colombia
Police officials reported three unidentified persons kidnapped a Spanish
citizen from his residence in the Santa Ana neighborhood of Barrancabermeja.
The hostage, an engineer, was employed by a Venezuelan firm. No one claimed
responsibility. The attack bore the hallmark of the ELN.
[end of text]
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