Scam in NigerTheft
Bandit carjackings and kidnappings north of Agadez in Niger
How it works
Bandits attack travellers and vehicles. Reported crimes include carjacking, robbery and kidnapping. Having a guide and a four-wheel-drive vehicle does not remove the danger.
Warning signs
- Your route continues north beyond Agadez into areas described as lawless.
- Someone claims a guide or four-wheel-drive vehicle makes the route safe.
How to avoid it
- Avoid travel north beyond Agadez.
- Do not rely on a guide or vehicle alone as protection.
- Stay in contact with your embassy and follow security developments.
If it happens to you
Do not resist armed attackers or make sudden movements. Seek police, medical and embassy help as soon as you can safely do so.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase thieves or resist armed attackers.
- Check for injuries and seek medical help if needed.
- Block stolen cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, booking details and messages. Write down the time, place and a description of what happened.
- Report theft, fraud or violence to police when safe. Ask for a written report if available.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you are stranded. Notify your travel insurer and keep copies of your records.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the bandit carjackings and kidnappings north of Agadez scam in Niger?
Bandits attack travellers and vehicles. Reported crimes include carjacking, robbery and kidnapping. Having a guide and a four-wheel-drive vehicle does not remove the danger.
How can I spot it early?
Your route continues north beyond Agadez into areas described as lawless. Someone claims a guide or four-wheel-drive vehicle makes the route safe.
How do I avoid bandit carjackings and kidnappings north of Agadez in Niger?
Avoid travel north beyond Agadez. Do not rely on a guide or vehicle alone as protection. Stay in contact with your embassy and follow security developments.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not resist armed attackers or make sudden movements. Seek police, medical and embassy help as soon as you can safely do so.
Where in Niger does this happen?
The region north of Agadez and roads beyond the city It has been reported in Agadez.
How common is this scam in Niger?
Common. Scams and fraud are common in Niger. Visitors may face fake requests for emergency money, inflated taxi fares, poor exchange rates and pressure to pay for unwanted help. Pickpocketing, bag theft and armed robbery also occur; outside Niamey, kidnapping and attacks on vehicles can be much more serious risks.
Are there similar scams in Niger?
Yes: market pickpocketing, cutting handbag straps, robbery at ravine crossings.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, fraud, robbery or an attack when it is safe to do so. Give the location, time, description and any evidence. Ask for a written report if available. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen, you are stranded or you need help after a serious incident. Your card issuer: use the issuer's official app or contact number to block missing cards and report unauthorised transactions. Airport staff: ask staff for help if someone will not return your luggage or you feel threatened by an unwanted porter. Your travel insurer: report the incident through its official claims channel. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of your losses.
Reviewed by @snuck