Chronology of Significant Terrorist Incidents

(1999)

 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.