Gunmen 'kidnap three Britons' near Nigerian oil port

Gunmen in Nigeria kidnapped three British workers today near the oil hub Port Harcourt, according to security sources.

A Colombian was also kidnapped and a Nigerian security officer killed when their convoy was attacked as the expatriates travelled to work. No group has claimed responsibility.

"The abduction took place early this morning and four expatriates were taken, but we don't have any more details now," said Ibim Semenitari, spokeswoman for the Rivers State government.

Kidnappings for ransom are common in the oil-producing Niger Delta with hundreds of incidents reported each year. Most are released unharmed after a couple of days.

A spokeswoman with Royal Dutch Shell said the expatriates, employed by Netco Dietsmann, were working as contractors for Shell at the Afam power plant.

"SPDC [Shell Petroleum Development Company] is cooperating with the government and the contractor, and supporting efforts for their safe release," she said.