UHNWI Security Services
Kidnap prevention is a unique type of executive protection service for UHNWIs or high-risk individuals who fear or recognize the potential threat of kidnapping due to their level of wealth, power, fame, and / or prominence.
In some instances, such individuals have already been victims of an attempted or successful kidnap-for-ransom operation in the past.
And because kidnapping operations are typically backed by organized criminal or terrorist networks, Hyperion kidnap prevention agents possess the very highest degree of training and experience – even among other elite security operators. Additionally, Hyperion agents often possess prior experience in conducting complex hostage rescue operations in difficult environments around the globe.
Who needs kidnap prevention services?
UHNWI, high-profile individuals, and foreign business travelers or tourists are specifically identified, targeted and tracked by kidnappers and organized crime syndicates because these individuals are perceived to possess the means to pay a substantial ransom.
Nine times out of ten, a kidnapping-for-ransom is executed as a criminal business transaction. These are planned and targeted criminal operations that work by collecting on a kidnap and ransom (K&R) insurance policy or directly from an UHNWI or otherwise high-risk individual.
While such kidnappings typically occur outside of the US, that risk can also be just as real within US borders, depending on the targeted individual and the motives of the kidnappers. Young children of UHNWIs are especially vulnerable for kidnap-for-ransom operations.
Costs for Personal Security Services
US Security Agents
The all-inclusive* daily rate for American kidnap prevention agents, the cost may range from $1,600 – $2,000 (USD) per day, per agent** within the US, Canada and parts of Europe and Asia.
Daily rates of $2,000 – $3,000 (USD) per agent, per day** can be expected within Central and South America, Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Europe and Asia.
Local National Support
If local nationals are needed to support an operation, the all-inclusive* daily rate may range between $800 – $1,200 (USD) per day, per agent.**
*The all-inclusive daily rate includes labor & expenses that directly support the agent in the field (i.e. flights, lodging, rental vehicles, meals, and other operationally-related equipment).
**The exact rate per agent depends upon the location and environment where the agent will perform his or her duties, specific threats towards the client, and duration of the requested service period.
Kidnapping Risk Factors
One of the most common and simple targeting methods kidnappers use to identify ultra high net worth individuals is to observe and track those who travel by private aircraft.
Very often, criminal syndicates or terrorists stage spotters at airfields where private jets commonly arrive and depart. The spotter’s sole task is to identify, track – and if an opportunity arises – conduct or coordinate a kidnapping.
Such risks can be greatly mitigated through proactive measures such as close protection and loose follow overwatch operations.