Two Across Staff Abducted Along Kaya Road, Suspects Demand US$2,000 Ransom

On 13 July 2026, two staff members of Across were reportedly abducted in Alero, about seven miles along the Kaya Road in Mugwo Payam, while traveling to carry out activities in the area. The abductors reportedly demanded a US$2,000 ransom for their release. During negotiations involving the authorities and the organization, the abductors reportedly demonstrated knowledge of Across staff, including some support staff. The information reportedly raised concerns among government authorities about how the abductors obtained detailed information about the organization’s personnel. Authorities subsequently questioned partner organizations over possible links to the incident, although no evidence establishing that partners were involved was provided.