Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.
There’s an ongoing high threat of kidnapping in Libya. There is a heightened risk at border areas with Algeria, Niger, Chad, Sudan and Tunisia.
Terrorist groups are capable of conducting kidnappings within Libya and across borders. Criminal gangs also carry out kidnappings, and there is a realistic possibility that they would sell hostages on to terrorist groups.
Foreigners have been kidnapped in the past.
Possible targets include:
mining industry employees
aid and humanitarian workers or volunteers
journalists and businesses
tourists, especially where tourism is rare
If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.
To reduce the risk of kidnapping:
always be alert to your personal security and surroundings
get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk
check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone
notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location
avoid talking about your money or business affairs
use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone
The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.
More information:
Source link : https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/libya
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Publish date : 2024-03-21 07:00:00
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