NEARLY 16,000 people were kidnapped by terrorists in 2006, down from some 35,000 in 2005, according to America's State Department. Most kidnappings occur in Nepal, with 10,294 in 2006, though this is 22,000 fewer than in 2005. This fall is attributed to peace discussions with the Maoist rebel group during the year. Hostage-taking in Iraq, however, rose by 300% compared with 2005. Trouble spots in Africa, such as Congo and Nigeria, also feature.

AFP