HOSTAGE BUSINESS MODEL
PHASE 1
Reconnaissance
An objective is set and a profile for suitable hostages designed to attract maximum media coverage in the home country
PHASE 2
Weaponisation
Arrests are made to match the profile and a show trial arranged which “legitimizes” the hostage detention
PHASE 3
Negotiation
Hostage assets are marketed via multiple diplomatic and other channels to authorities in the home country with the intention to barter the release
PHASE 4
Exploitation
At some point a deal is agreed and the original or and equivalent outcome is realized. The deal is branded as a humanitarian gesture