2009 Terrorism & Security Events — Verified Historical Highlights
2009 Terrorism & Security Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 04 Jan Suicide bombing at Shia shrine near Baghdad: On January 4, 2009, a suicide bombing occurred near a Shia shrine in Baghdad, Iraq, resulting in numerous casualties. The attack targeted Shia pilgrims during a religious procession. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 05 Jan EnCana Pipeline Bombing in British Columbia: A fourth bomb was detonated targeting EnCana Corporation's gas pipelines near Tomslake, British Columbia. This incident marked the first bombing since the original three blasts in October 2008, raising concerns about industrial infrastructure security.
- 12 Jan Capture of terrorist leader in Iraq: On January 12, 2009, Iraqi forces captured a prominent terrorist leader during a military operation. This event was part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region. source: reuters.com
- 27 Jan Bus Hijacking Incident in Bulgaria: A man in Bulgaria hijacked a bus, holding 37 passengers hostage for two hours before ultimately surrendering to authorities, creating a tense public safety situation.
- 03 Feb Colombian FARC Rebels Release Hostage Governor: Colombian FARC rebels released former provincial governor Alan Jara, who had been held hostage since July 2001, marking a significant moment in Colombia's long-running conflict.
- 04 Feb Arrest of Suicide Bomber Recruiter: Samira Ahmed Jasim was arrested in Iraq, accused of recruiting over 80 suicide bombers, representing a significant counterterrorism operation.
- 08 Feb Karbala Roadside Bombing: A roadside bomb in Karbala, Iraq, resulted in two fatalities and injured 11 people, highlighting ongoing regional instability.
- 09 Feb Tamil Tigers Suicide Bombing: In a tragic terrorist attack at a Sri Lankan refugee camp, a suicide bomber from the Tamil Tigers killed 28 people and injured 90 others, highlighting the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in the region.
- 13 Feb Suicide bombing in Karbala, Iraq: On February 13, 2009, a suicide bombing in Karbala, Iraq, targeted Shiite pilgrims, resulting in numerous casualties. source: reuters.com
- 21 Feb Civilian casualties in Afghanistan: On February 21, 2009, a suicide bombing in Mogadishu, Somalia, carried out by al-Shabaab militants, resulted in the deaths of 11 Burundian soldiers and injuries to 15 others. The attack targeted the base of the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM). source: en.wikipedia.org
- 22 Feb Al-Shabaab attack in Somalia: On February 22, 2009, al-Shabaab militants conducted a suicide bombing at an African Union base in Mogadishu, Somalia, resulting in the deaths of 11 Burundian soldiers and injuries to 15 others. The attack targeted the base of the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM). source: en.wikipedia.org
- 03 Mar Terrorist attack on Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore: On March 3, 2009, the Sri Lankan cricket team was attacked by armed militants in Lahore, Pakistan. The assault resulted in several injuries and fatalities among the players and security personnel. This incident raised significant concerns about security in Pakistan and the safety of international sports events. source: bbc.com
- 15 Mar Bombing in Shibam, Yemen: A bomb attack in Shibam, Yemen, resulted in four fatalities and three injuries, underscoring regional instability.
- 27 Mar Mosque bombing in Pakistan: On March 27, 2009, a bombing at a mosque in Pakistan resulted in multiple casualties. The attack was part of a series of violent incidents linked to extremist groups in the region. source: bbc.com
- 04 Apr Binghamton Shooting Tragedy: A tragic mass shooting occurs in Binghamton, New York, where a gunman takes hostages and ultimately commits suicide, causing significant local trauma.
- 05 Apr Suicide bombing at Shia mosque in Pakistan: On April 5, 2009, a suicide bomber attacked a Shia mosque in Pakistan, resulting in numerous casualties. The attack highlighted ongoing sectarian violence in the region and raised concerns about security in Pakistan. source: bbc.com
- 10 Apr Deadly suicide bombing in Mosul, Iraq: On April 10, 2009, a suicide bomber targeted a police checkpoint in Mosul, Iraq, resulting in the deaths of at least 10 people and injuring over 20 others. The attack was attributed to insurgent groups aiming to destabilize the region and challenge the Iraqi government's authority. The incident underscored the ongoing security challenges in northern Iraq. source: reuters.com
- 11 Apr French Navy rescues hostages from Somali pirates: On April 11, 2009, the French Navy successfully rescued two French nationals held hostage by Somali pirates off the coast of Somalia. The operation involved a coordinated assault by French commandos, resulting in the release of the hostages without any casualties. The French government praised the operation as a significant success in combating piracy in the region. source: reuters.com
- 12 Apr U.S. Navy rescues Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates: On April 12, 2009, Captain Richard Phillips was rescued by U.S. Navy SEALs after being held hostage by Somali pirates for five days. The rescue operation resulted in the death of three pirates and the capture of a fourth. Phillips was unharmed and later transferred to the USS Boxer for medical evaluation. source: washingtonpost.com
- 22 Apr Train Hijacking and Hostage Situation in India: In Latehar, India, a train hijacker took 500 hostages. The Naxalite movement subsequently released all hostages, demonstrating a complex political and security scenario.
- 23 Apr Suicide Bombings in Baghdad, Iraq: In Baghdad, Iraq, two suicide bombers conducted separate attacks, resulting in the tragic loss of 76 lives. These coordinated bombings highlighted the ongoing instability and violence in the region.
- 24 Apr Baghdad shrine suicide bombing: A suicide bombing occurred at a shrine in Baghdad on April 24, 2009, resulting in numerous casualties. This attack underscored the ongoing sectarian violence in Iraq and the challenges to security in the region. source: reuters.com
- 01 May Pakistani Army Conducts Operation Black Thunder: During Operation Black Thunder, the Pakistani Army successfully neutralized approximately 60 Taliban militants, demonstrating ongoing counterterrorism efforts in the region.
- 06 May Baghdad Car Bombing: A devastating car bomb attack in Dora, Baghdad, Iraq, results in at least ten fatalities and injures 30 people, highlighting ongoing regional instability.
- 08 May Arrest of Islamic Terrorist Mas Selamat bin Kastari: Malaysian authorities captured Mas Selamat bin Kastari, a significant Islamic terrorist and Singaporean fugitive, marking an important counterterrorism operation.
- 20 May Baghdad Car Bombing: A devastating car bomb in Baghdad, Iraq, resulted in 34 fatalities and injured 72 people, underscoring the ongoing violence in the region.
- 01 Jun Soldier Killed at Military Recruitment Center: A violent incident occurs at a military recruitment center in Little Rock, where one man injures and kills a soldier, raising concerns about domestic terrorism and military personnel safety.
- 02 Jun Pakistani Military Rescues Hostages: The Pakistani military successfully rescues 80 people kidnapped by Taliban militants, demonstrating ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
- 03 Jun Execution of British Hostage: British hostage Edwin Dwyer was executed by the Islamic Maghreb al-Qaeda Organization, highlighting ongoing terrorist activities and international hostage situations.
- 05 Jun Baghdad Bombing: A bomb detonation in Baghdad, Iraq, claimed the lives of nine people, further highlighting the ongoing instability and violence in the region.
- 10 Jun Car bombing in Iraq: On June 10, 2009, a car bomb exploded in Baghdad, Iraq, killing at least 20 people and injuring dozens more. The attack targeted a police checkpoint in the city center. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 12 Jun Anti-Taliban Cleric Assassinated: Sarfraz Naeemi, a prominent Pakistani anti-Taliban cleric, is killed in a suicide bombing attack on his Islamic school in Lahore, highlighting the ongoing religious and political tensions in the region.
- 14 Jun Bombing in Pakistan: A bomb explosion in Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, resulted in at least seven fatalities and injured 50 other individuals, underscoring ongoing regional instability.
- 20 Jun Suicide truck bombing in Taza, Iraq: On June 20, 2009, a suicide truck bombing occurred in Taza, Iraq, targeting a Shiite mosque. The attack resulted in at least 73 fatalities and over 200 injuries, marking it as one of the deadliest attacks in Iraq since March 2008. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 26 Jun Baghdad market bombing: On June 26, 2009, a bombing in a Baghdad market resulted in multiple casualties. The attack was part of a series of violent incidents in Iraq during that period. source: reuters.com
- 27 Jun Taliban suicide attack in Kashmir: On June 27, 2009, a suicide bombing attributed to the Taliban occurred in Kashmir, resulting in several fatalities and injuries. The attack was part of ongoing insurgent activities in the region. source: reuters.com
- 29 Jun US Resumes Secret Surveillance Flights in Pakistan: The United States resumed secret surveillance flights to aid Pakistani military commanders, indicating continued strategic cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.
- 30 Jun Car bombing in Kirkuk, Iraq: On June 30, 2009, a car bomb exploded in Kirkuk, Iraq, killing several people and injuring many others. The attack was part of a series of violent incidents in the region, highlighting ongoing security challenges in Iraq following the withdrawal of U.S. troops from urban areas. source: reuters.com
- 04 Jul Mindanao Bombings Begin: The first of four days of bombings commenced on the southern Philippine island group of Mindanao, highlighting ongoing regional security challenges. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
- 13 Jul Kabul Bombing Targets Police: A bomb explosion in Kabul, Afghanistan, killed a chief police officer and injured four other officers. The Taliban were suspected of perpetrating the attack.
- 17 Jul Jakarta hotel bombings: On July 17, 2009, two luxury hotels in Jakarta, Indonesia, were targeted in coordinated bomb attacks, resulting in several deaths and injuries. The attacks were attributed to terrorist groups and raised concerns about security in the region. source: bbc.com
- 22 Jul Russia-China Joint Military Drill: A five-day joint military exercise between Russian and Chinese troops was conducted, focusing on improving bilateral capabilities to combat terrorism and enhance strategic cooperation.
- 26 Jul Suicide attack in Grozny: On July 26, 2009, a suicide bombing occurred in Grozny, the capital of Chechnya, Russia. The attack targeted a government building, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident was attributed to separatist militants. source: reuters.com
- 03 Aug Somali Pirates Release Malaysian Tugboat: After seven months of captivity, Somali pirates released a Malaysian tugboat carrying 11 Indonesian sailors, marking a resolution to a prolonged maritime hostage situation.
- 07 Aug Deadly mosque bombings in Iraq: On August 7, 2009, a series of bombings targeted Shiite mosques in Baghdad and Kirkuk, Iraq, resulting in at least 50 deaths and over 100 injuries. The attacks were attributed to Sunni insurgents aiming to incite sectarian violence. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Aug Noordin Mohammed Top killed in Java: On August 8, 2009, Indonesian police killed Noordin Mohammed Top, a Malaysian national and leader of the militant group Jemaah Islamiyah, in a raid in Java. Top was responsible for several bombings in Indonesia and was considered a significant threat to national security. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 09 Aug Bomb Explosions in Majorca: Three bombs explode in Majorca, Spain, raising concerns about potential terrorist activities or local unrest.
- 15 Aug Suicide bombing in Kabul: On August 15, 2009, a suicide bombing occurred in Kabul, Afghanistan, resulting in multiple casualties. The attack targeted a convoy of foreign troops, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region. source: aljazeera.com
- 17 Aug Suicide bombing in Nazran, North Caucasus: On August 17, 2009, a suicide bombing took place in Nazran, the largest city in Russia's North Caucasus region. The attack targeted a police station, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries, and underscoring the ongoing security challenges in the area. source: aljazeera.com
- 21 Aug Obama condemns Lockerbie bomber's release: On August 20, 2009, the Scottish government released Abdel Basset Mohamed al-Megrahi, the only person convicted in connection with the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, which killed 270 people, including 189 Americans. The U.S. government, including President Obama, expressed deep regret over the decision, emphasizing that Megrahi should serve out his sentence in Scotland. The release was met with criticism from U.S. officials and families of the victims. source: obamawhitehouse.archives.gov
- 26 Aug French Police Uncover ETA Weapons: French law enforcement discovers substantial quantities of explosives and weapons belonging to the Basque separatist terrorist group ETA, highlighting ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in Europe.
- 31 Aug Russian Forces Neutralize Al Qaeda Operatives: Russian security forces claim to have killed an Algerian Al Qaeda operative and another militant during a raid in Khasavyurt, Dagestan, highlighting ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
- 14 Sep US Special Forces attack Al-Shabab in Somalia: On September 14, 2009, US Special Forces conducted an operation against Al-Shabab militants in Somalia. This action was part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region and protect US interests. source: reuters.com
- 15 Sep Counterterrorism Raid in New York: Federal and city counterterrorism agents conducted a raid on two apartments in Queens. No arrests were made, and no explosives or weapons were discovered, highlighting ongoing vigilance in urban security.
- 17 Sep Noordin Mohammed Top: Terrorism suspect: Noordin Mohammed Top, a key figure in Southeast Asian terrorism, was reported to be involved in various attacks and was a target of law enforcement. His activities have been linked to several bombings in Indonesia, raising concerns about regional security. source: reuters.com
- 18 Sep Kohat Suicide Bombing: A devastating suicide bombing in Kohat, North West Frontier Province of Pakistan, claimed the lives of at least 33 people, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region.
- 19 Sep Germany raises terrorism alert: In response to increased threats, Germany raised its terrorism alert level, reflecting concerns about potential attacks. This decision was part of broader security measures to protect citizens and infrastructure. source: bbc.com
- 26 Sep Car bomb explosions in Pakistan: On September 26, 2009, multiple car bomb explosions occurred in Pakistan, resulting in numerous casualties and widespread damage. The attacks targeted civilian areas and were attributed to militant groups operating in the region, highlighting ongoing security challenges and the threat of terrorism in Pakistan.
- 10 Oct Attack on Pakistan Military Headquarters: An attack on Pakistan's military headquarters in Islamabad resulted in ten to fifteen security personnel being taken hostage, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
- 11 Oct Deadly car explosion in Ramadi, Iraq: On October 11, 2009, a series of bombings in Ramadi, Iraq, resulted in at least 14 deaths and numerous injuries. The first explosion occurred in a parking lot near the police headquarters and provincial council building, followed by a second blast targeting responders, and a third near the hospital gates. These attacks marked a resurgence of violence in Anbar province, previously a stronghold of insurgency. source: wbur.org
- 16 Oct Terrorist plot conviction in Sydney: On October 16, 2009, a Sydney court convicted several individuals involved in planning a terrorist attack in Australia. The plot was foiled by Australian authorities, and the convictions were seen as a significant success in counter-terrorism efforts. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 29 Oct Thai Cargo Ship Hijacked off Somali Coast: A Thai cargo vessel was taken hostage by pirates in the Gulf of Aden, off Somalia's coast, highlighting ongoing maritime security challenges in the region.
- 21 Nov Italian police arrest Mumbai attack suspects: On November 21, 2009, Italian police arrested several individuals suspected of being involved in the 2008 Mumbai attacks. This operation was part of a broader effort to address international terrorism and enhance security measures. source: reuters.com
- 27 Nov Nevsky Express Train Bombing: A terrorist bomb blast caused the Russian Nevsky Express high-speed passenger train to derail near the town of Bologoye, located between Moscow and St. Petersburg. The attack resulted in at least 26 fatalities and 90 injuries, marking a significant terrorist incident on Russian transportation infrastructure.
- 28 Nov Russia investigates Nevsky Express bombing: On November 28, 2009, Russian authorities began an investigation into the bombing of the Nevsky Express train, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. The attack was believed to be linked to separatist groups in the North Caucasus region. source: reuters.com
- 02 Dec Caucasus Islamists claim responsibility for train bombing: On December 2, 2009, Islamist militants in the Caucasus region claimed responsibility for a train bombing that resulted in multiple casualties. The attack highlighted ongoing security concerns in the area, where insurgent activity has been prevalent. source: reuters.com
- 03 Dec Deadly suicide bombing in Mogadishu: On December 3, 2009, a suicide bombing in Mogadishu, Somalia, resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. The attack targeted a government building, reflecting the ongoing violence and instability in the region. source: bbc.com
- 07 Dec Baghdad School Bombing: A tragic terrorist attack targets a school in Baghdad, resulting in at least eight deaths, predominantly children, and 41 additional injuries, underscoring the ongoing violence in the region.
- 08 Dec Baghdad car bombings: On December 8, 2009, a series of car bombings in Baghdad targeted government buildings and security forces, resulting in numerous casualties. The attacks were attributed to insurgent groups aiming to destabilize the Iraqi government. source: reuters.com
- 10 Dec Hostage Situation in Mindanao: In Agusan Del Sur, Mindanao, Philippines, after at least 65 people were kidnapped, 18 hostages were successfully freed, highlighting ongoing regional security challenges.
- 24 Dec Suicide Bombing in Kandahar, Afghanistan: A suicide bombing attack in Kandahar resulted in at least eight fatalities, contributing to the ongoing instability and violence in the region during the late 2009 period.
- 25 Dec Attempted terrorist attack on Northwest Airlines Flight 253: On December 25, 2009, an attempted terrorist attack occurred on Northwest Airlines Flight 253, en route from Amsterdam to Detroit. A Nigerian passenger attempted to detonate explosives concealed in his underwear but was subdued by passengers and crew before causing any harm. source: aljazeera.com
- 26 Dec Targeted Bombing in Southern Beirut: A targeted bomb explosion occurred in southern Beirut, Lebanon, killing an unidentified Hamas member and injuring two others. The incident reflects the ongoing tensions and complex political landscape in the region.
- 28 Dec Suicide bombing during Ashura in Karachi: On December 28, 2009, a suicide bombing occurred in Karachi, Pakistan, during the Islamic observance of Ashura. The attack targeted a procession, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident was attributed to sectarian violence in the region. source: reuters.com
What happened in 2009?
Discover what the world looked like in 2009: