Madagascar is facing an unprecedented wave of violent kidnappings and disappearances, according to Martin Ewi, Senior Researcher on Transnational Threats and Organised Crime at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS).

Authorities estimate that over 200 people have been abducted or reported missing across the country since January 2026, with more than 60% of these incidents recorded between May and July. While security forces have recovered 175 victims, many bearing severe physical trauma, including torture and mutilation, six deaths have been confirmed and 19 individuals remain missing.

Unlike past criminal waves driven by Dahalo cattle-rustling syndicates operating in rural regions for monetary ransom, the current abductions have frequently occurred in broad daylight in urban areas without any ransom demands. The absence of clear financial motives has fuelled widespread public panic and speculation regarding political sabotage or ritualistic killings linked to local cultural practices.

The security breakdown has put immense strain on Madagascar’s transitional government, led by Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, which assumed power in October 2025 following widespread civil unrest that ousted former President Andry Rajoelina. The government’s crisis response has also been complicated by severe recovery efforts following two destructive tropical cyclones earlier this year.

While the transitional administration has deployed troops to street patrols and arrested over 20 suspects, security analysts emphasise that military presence alone will not solve the issue. Ewi stresses that authorities must urgently bolster intelligence gathering to unmask the orchestrators, resolve missing persons cases, and restore public confidence.

–ChannelAfrica/ISS–