On May 15, 2012, former Colombian Interior Minister Fernando Londoño was the target of a bombing in Bogotá. The attack, which occurred during his vehicle convoy’s journey through the city, tragically claimed the lives of his driver and bodyguard and injured over 20 bystanders. Although Londoño survived with injuries, the incident highlights the critical importance of robust close protection measures. Authorities linked the attack to urban terrorists allegedly associated with the FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia), underscoring the persistent risks faced by high-profile individuals.
In 2024, German intelligence services uncovered and thwarted an assassination plot against Armin Papperger, the CEO of Rheinmetall, one of Europe’s leading defence manufacturers. The plan, believed to be orchestrated by Russian operatives, targeted Papperger due to his company’s support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. The Rheinmetall plot was one of a series of Russian plans to assassinate defence industry executives across Europe supporting Ukraine's war effort. While the attack was averted through proactive intelligence efforts, the incident again demonstrates the grave risks faced by high-profile individuals in high-stakes industries.
Numerous celebrities have fallen victim to robberies in London, exposing the city’s struggles with high-profile thefts. In 2018, comedian Michael McIntyre was robbed outside his children's school in Golders Green. Two men on a moped smashed his car window and stole his watch in broad daylight. Such incidents reflect the sharp rise in moped-enabled crimes, which increased from 827 in 2012 to over 23,000 by 2017.
Mobile phones and luxury watches remain prime targets, with Gangs often use distraction tactics or violent confrontations, with some incidents escalating into personal assaults or follow-home robberies.
The targeting of former Colombian Interior Minister Fernando Londoño in a deadly bombing and the foiled assassination plot against Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, demonstrate the persistent risks faced by high-profile individuals. Whether it’s urban terrorism linked to groups like FARC or politically motivated threats, such incidents highlight the critical need for robust and multi-layered close protection.
In urban environments like London, even non-political figures face significant risk, such as Michael McIntyre, further spotlighting the need for tailored security measures.
Tailored security solutions, including comprehensive risk assessments, secure transportation, and top-tier close protection operatives, are designed to identify and mitigate threats before they escalate. These measures ensure safety and allow individuals to focus on their priorities, even in the most unpredictable environments.
Contact us today to learn how we can provide you with peace of mind and world-class protection.
We need your consent to load the translations
We use a third-party service to translate the website content that may collect data about your activity. Please review the details in the privacy policy and accept the service to view the translations.