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