Hanwei Global Security Information
This issue summarizes the security intelligence dynamics across various global regions from October 7 to 13, 2024. According to security risk assessments, the security levels of these regions are as indicated on the global risk map, with Afghanistan, Nigeria, Myanmar, Pakistan, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, and other areas classified as extremely high-risk zones. During this period, frequent security incidents such as armed conflicts and terrorist attacks occurred in these regions, requiring overseas Chinese enterprises to enhance their security precautions. (This information is solely for internal risk assessment purposes.)
Middle East Region
(1) Syria
Israeli airstrike on Damascus capital kills 7 and injures 11.On October 8, a residential building in western Damascus, the capital of Syria, was hit by an Israeli missile strike, resulting in 7 deaths, including 3 women and 1 child, and 11 injuries. That night, Israel launched 3 missiles from the occupied Golan Heights, striking a 14-story residential building in the Mezzeh district of Damascus. The building was penetrated in three places, causing multiple casualties.
The attacked building
U.S. military claims airstrikes on ISIS strongholds.On October 12, the U.S. Central Command stated that the U.S. military conducted airstrikes on multiple strongholds of the extremist group "Islamic State" (ISIS) in Syria, with no civilian casualties reported.
(2) Iraq
Shooting and homicide incidents leave 4 dead.On October 6, a shooting occurred in the Khadran area of Dukan, Sulaymaniyah Province, Iraq, resulting in 1 death. The shooter was arrested by the police. On October 7, a homicide in the Mandali district east of Baqubah, Diyala Province, left 3 dead. The perpetrator surrendered to security forces after the crime.
(3) Palestine and Israel
Palestinian-Israeli conflict has claimed over 42,000 Palestinian lives.From October 7 to 13, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) continued intense clashes with the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) in multiple areas, including central and southern Gaza Strip. As of October 11, the latest round of Israeli military operations in Gaza has resulted in 42,019 Palestinian deaths and 97,501 injuries. Among these, an Israeli attack on the Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza on the 11th killed at least 22 people, injured 30, and left 14 missing. Additionally, the IDF stated that since October 7, 2023, Israeli forces have struck over 40,000 targets in Gaza. A total of 728 Israeli soldiers, reservists, and security personnel have been killed, with 4,576 wounded. Over 26,000 rockets, missiles, and drones have been launched at Israel, primarily from Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iran.
Multiple areas in Israel were attacked.On October 6, the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights was targeted by a drone attack from the Iraqi militia "Islamic Resistance," with casualties unknown. On October 7, central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jaffa, was hit by two surface-to-surface missiles launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels, with no immediate reports of casualties. On October 9, a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Hadera left at least six injured. The assailant, who fled on a motorcycle, was shot dead by police. Israeli authorities labeled the incident a "terrorist attack."
(4) Lebanon
The Lebanon-Israel conflict persists.From October 7 to 13, Hezbollah and Israel continued fighting along the southern Lebanese border. According to data released by Lebanon’s Emergency Committee on the 9th, since the escalation of the Lebanon-Israel conflict on October 8, 2023, Lebanon has endured 9,470 Israeli attacks, resulting in 2,141 deaths and 10,099 injuries. Additionally, from October 10 to 11, Israeli forces targeted a UN peacekeeping bunker and three UNIFIL camps in the Rabouna area of southern Lebanon, injuring six peacekeepers. In response, UNIFIL stated that any deliberate attacks on peacekeepers violate international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701. UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned Israel’s attacks on UNIFIL, calling the incident "unacceptable and must not recur."
Scene of the attack in southern Beirut
Asia-Pacific Region
(1) Pakistan
Multiple attacks resulted in 21 deaths, 10 injuries, and 2 kidnappings.On October 6, two border force soldiers were kidnapped by the "Pakistani Taliban" in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan; on the same day, a convoy of the Balochistan Commissioner was attacked by unidentified armed personnel, resulting in vehicle damage but no casualties; on October 10, a police patrol vehicle in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province was attacked by unidentified armed personnel, injuring three police officers; on the same day, a security checkpoint in Balochistan was attacked, killing at least one security personnel; on October 11, a coal mine in Duki District, Balochistan, was attacked by armed militants, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 miners, seven injuries, and the burning of 10 engines and other mining equipment. So far, no organization has claimed responsibility for the attacks.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises Chinese citizens to exercise caution when traveling to Pakistan.On October 8, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in Pakistan issued a security reminder: recently, the security situation in Pakistan has been severe and complex, with frequent security incidents. Chinese citizens are advised to exercise caution when traveling to Pakistan and to avoid high-risk areas such as Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. Chinese nationals already in Pakistan must remain vigilant, enhance their safety awareness, conduct comprehensive risk assessments, and strengthen security measures. In case of emergencies, contact the Chinese Embassy or Consulates in Pakistan for assistance.
(II) Philippines
Shooting incident in Isabela Province leaves three dead.On October 11, a shooting incident occurred at a military camp in Isabela Province, northern Philippines, resulting in three deaths. On the same day, a soldier shot and killed his wife, mother-in-law, and a male driver. The soldier has since been dismissed and arrested, and an investigation is underway.
(III) Myanmar
Robbery in Nay Pyi Taw leaves one dead.On October 7, a robbery and homicide occurred in the Dukathethi neighborhood of Zabuthiri Township, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, resulting in one death. On the same day, a residence in the neighborhood was robbed by multiple assailants, and the homeowner was killed while resisting. The robbers fled after looting some valuables. The police have launched an investigation into the incident.
The Consulate General in Mandalay issued a security reminder.On October 11, the Chinese Consulate General in Mandalay issued a security alert. Recently, multiple incidents involving Chinese citizens being obstructed from passage and Chinese-funded enterprises being robbed have occurred in northern Myanmar. The Consulate General reminds Chinese citizens in northern Myanmar to avoid areas with high security risks such as armed conflicts and regions where foreign citizens are prohibited from entering by the Myanmar government. They should take practical measures for security precautions. In case of emergencies such as robbery, extortion, or kidnapping, remain calm, avoid conflict with the perpetrators, preserve evidence, and promptly report to the police and contact the Consulate General in Mandalay for assistance.
(4) Kyrgyzstan
Shooting in capital Bishkek leaves 1 dead and 2 injured.On October 11, a shooting occurred at a boxing gym in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, resulting in 1 death and 2 injuries. The attacker is currently at large, and the police have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation into the robbery incident.
Africa Region
(1) Nigeria
Northern region on alert against bandit attacks.According to a monitoring report by Hanwei International's security officer in West Africa, on October 10, Kano City in northern Nigeria activated a "high alert" mode to counter potential bandit attacks. Recently, the Nigerian military has conducted large-scale clearance operations against bandits in Zamfara and Sokoto states, forcing many bandits to "retreat" to Kano State. Intelligence suggests that bandits are planning to attack Kano City, using "informants" to purchase residences and plan escape routes in the city. Therefore, Chinese enterprises and citizens in Nigeria are advised to closely monitor local security developments, enhance security awareness, reduce unnecessary outings, and avoid crowded areas. Strict security management measures should be implemented to ensure the safety of personnel and property.
(2) South Africa
Chinese merchants in Cape Town, Western Cape, extorted.On October 6, two Chinese merchants in the Milnerton area of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa, were extorted for 28,000 rand (approximately 11,300 yuan). On the same day, seven police officers arrived at a Chinese mall in Cape Town in a police vehicle. They extorted 18,000 rand from one store under the pretext of collecting protection fees, then demanded 10,000 rand from another store. Currently, the seven involved officers have been arrested.
(3) Burkina Faso
Attack on government military camp in North-Central Region leaves 18 dead and 7 injured.On October 11, a government military camp in the eastern part of the North-Central Region of Burkina Faso was attacked by dozens of armed militants, resulting in 18 deaths, including several soldiers, and 7 injuries.
(4) Cameroon
Attack on government military outpost in Northwest Region leaves 2 dead.On October 11, a government military outpost in the Northwest Region of Cameroon was attacked by separatist militants, resulting in the deaths of 2 government soldiers.
(5) Angola
Chinese enterprise in Luanda Province set on fire.On October 7, a woven bag factory in the industrial park of a Chinese enterprise in Cacuaco District, Luanda Province, Angola, was deliberately set on fire. Hundreds of tons of raw materials, products, and factory equipment were burned, causing direct economic losses of tens of millions of RMB. It was reported that the arsonist was a former Angolan employee who had been fired for theft and was later arrested by the police.
(6) Sudan
Armed conflicts continue in multiple areas.From October 7 to 13, the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces continued to engage in battles in the capital Khartoum, North Khartoum, Omdurman, as well as central and western regions. During the week, the Sudanese Armed Forces recaptured areas such as Halfaya and Kadru in North Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces and regained control of the Jawa area in the Blue Nile State in southeastern Sudan. Additionally, the Sudanese Armed Forces, in collaboration with local militias, fought fiercely with the Rapid Support Forces over control of North Darfur State in El Fasher. Currently, the Rapid Support Forces have taken control of four out of the five states in the western Darfur region, excluding North Darfur. The ongoing armed conflicts have displaced over 10.8 million people within Sudan, with approximately 25.6 million in urgent need of food and medical services, while cholera and other epidemics are spreading across multiple regions of the country.
Europe and America
(1) United States
5 shootings and homicides result in 4 deaths and 11 injuries.On October 7, a shooting occurred on a street in Lakewood, Ohio, USA, leaving 1 dead and 1 critically injured; on the same day, a homicide took place on East Street in Prince George's County, Washington, D.C., resulting in 1 death; also on the same day, a shooting at 4100 South Street in Fort Davis, Washington, D.C., claimed 1 life; on October 8, a shooting in a neighborhood in northeastern Washington, D.C., left 1 person seriously injured; on October 12, a shooting near Tennessee State University killed 1 and injured 9. Police stated the shooting occurred between two groups and was not directly related to the university's earlier parade and celebrations.
(2) Ukraine
Armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues.From October 7 to 13, Russia's special military operation in Ukraine continued. The Russian Ministry of Defense recently released a combat report stating that over the past week, Russian forces conducted 38 cluster strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities, military airfields, radar systems, U.S.-made Patriot missile launchers, and weapon depots. They also gained control of several settlements in multiple directions, including Donetsk. Russian air defense systems intercepted numerous Ukrainian missiles, rockets, aerial bombs, and drones. Additionally, Russian forces repelled multiple Ukrainian attacks in the Kursk region, targeting armored vehicles and electronic warfare stations. On the Ukrainian side, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported hundreds of engagements with Russian forces across multiple fronts this week, repelling several Russian offensives. Ukrainian forces also struck a large oil depot near the port of Feodosia in eastern Crimea and a Russian military airfield, hitting an ammunition depot. They destroyed several Russian military assets, including an Mi-8 helicopter.
(III) Haiti
Gang attacks in Artibonite Province leave 115 dead.From October 9 to 10, the town of Pont-Sondé in central Haiti's Artibonite Province was attacked by gangs, resulting in at least 115 deaths. Dozens of members from the Grand Ravine gang carried out shootings and robberies against local residents. Currently, multinational police forces have been deployed to Artibonite to assist the Haitian National Police in combating gang activities and restoring regional peace.
(IV) Mexico
Mayor of Chilpancingo, capital of Guerrero State, assassinated.On October 8, media reported that Alejandro Aco, the newly appointed mayor of Chilpancingo, the capital of Guerrero State in southern Mexico, was allegedly murdered by a drug cartel on October 6, less than a week after taking office. Recently, multiple drug cartels have been vying for territory and influence in Chilpancingo, leading to frequent violent incidents.
Ongoing clashes between drug cartels in Sinaloa leave 159 dead.On October 7, media reported that as of October 6, ongoing armed clashes between drug cartels in Mexico's Sinaloa State had resulted in 159 deaths and the looting of over 30 businesses. The conflict between the two major cartels, "Mayos" and "Chapitos," began on September 9 and has continued unabated.
(V) Ecuador
Multiple attacks leave 11 dead and 8 injured.On October 8, a gang-related armed attack occurred in Guayaquil, Guayas Province, Ecuador, resulting in 5 deaths. On October 9, a convoy of the Central Bank of Ecuador (BCE) was attacked by over 20 armed militants at the 90-kilometer mark of the Cuenca-Molleturo highway in Azuay Province, leaving 1 guard dead and 8 injured. On the same day, a gunfight broke out near Amazon Avenue in the Miraflores community of Shushufindi Canton, Sucumbíos Province, Ecuador, killing 4 people. On October 10, a shooting incident in the Primero de Mayo district of Portoviejo, Manabí Province, Ecuador, claimed the life of a prison staff member.
Scene of the October 9 shooting incident in the Miraflores community, Shushufindi Canton, Sucumbíos Province
(VI) Russia
Shooting in the Republic of Ingushetia leaves 3 dead.On October 11, a shooting occurred in Magas, the capital of the Republic of Ingushetia, Russia, killing 1 police officer and 2 civilians. Authorities reported that unidentified individuals fired at a vehicle carrying personnel from the Interior Ministry's Center for Countering Extremism at a local gas station that night. The assailants remain at large.
Ukrainian attacks across multiple regions result in 1 death and 14 injuries.On October 10, a Ukrainian drone strike targeted a military airfield in the Republic of Adygea, Russia, triggering an explosion at a nearby ammunition depot and damaging several aircraft, including Su-34 fighter jets. On October 12, shelling by Ukrainian forces in Belgorod Oblast, Russia, killed 1 person and injured 11. The same day, a drone attack in the village of Ustinka, Belgorod District, wounded 3 civilians. Additionally, Ukrainian drone strikes damaged buildings in two areas of Krasnodar Krai, with no reported casualties.
(VII) Costa Rica
Shooting in San José Province leaves 2 dead.On October 7, a shooting at a shopping center in the Guachipelín area of Escazú, San José Province, Costa Rica, killed 2 people. The case is currently under investigation.
Maritime Security
(I) Red Sea
Houthis claim attacks on one vessel each in Red Sea and Indian Ocean.On October 10, Yemeni Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree announced that the group had targeted the US oil tanker OLYMPIC SPIRIT in the Red Sea with 11 ballistic missiles and 2 drones, causing severe damage upon impact. In the Indian Ocean, they reportedly struck the US tanker ST. JOHN with missiles for violating their navigation ban.
