Response to specific terrorist threat against convoy

Background

During a client’s heavy equipment convoy operation from Côte d’Ivoire to Mali, a specific threat from a regional militant group was detected by local intelligence contacts. Healix’s intelligence team monitored regional extremist channels and verified that the threat was authentic. In response, our embedded security manager immediately contracted additional security support and coordinated with local military partners to ensure the convoy’s safe passage.

Challenge

The convoy was tracked by a militant group, creating a critical security threat that required urgent additional measures

Healix’s embedded security manager obtained actionable intelligence that the convoy was being proactively tracked by a regional militant group, Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). JNIM is a coalition of Salafi-jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda that has operated across the Sahel since 2017. JNIM has developed into one of the most prominent armed groups in the region, repeatedly demonstrating its ability to conduct large-scale complex attacks. Our security manager oversaw the apprehension of the JNIM spotter and confirmed they had been gathering intelligence and reporting convoy positioning and movement.

As part of our pre-transit project risk assessment, JNIM had been categorised as having EXPRESSED (level 4) intent and being a CAPABLE (level 4) threat actor. This categorisation, coupled with the verification of the threat via the monitoring of regional extremist channels and the risk of a militant assault on the convoy, represented a CRITICAL security incident to the client’s personnel and assets. For operations to continue as conceptualised, additional security measures would have to be implemented.

Approach

Healix assessed the situation, coordinated with local forces and added extensive security

Upon detection of the threat and assessment that the security risk to our client’s personnel and equipment was credible, Healix briefed the client’s security team on the intelligence and situation.

We made the assessment that the heavy equipment convoy could continue, but that additional and extensive security support would be needed. Healix’s embedded security manager proceeded to liaise with local gendarmerie and security force agencies to contract additional support. A comprehensive detail was assigned to the convoy, which bolstered the armed security already on the task.

Outcome

Our detection and response ensured the completion of a successful transit

Despite the detection of a credible militant threat, Healix’s proactive identification and risk mitigation ensured that the heavy equipment convoy was able to successfully complete the transit from Côte d’Ivoire to Mali. The planned installation activity in Bamako was able to be proceed as required.

Additional security and convoy management protocols were also implemented to ensure the safety of all personnel involved in the operation.