Al-Qaeda in the Maghreb (AQ-M) represents a significant terrorist threat in north Africa and the Sahara. Exact numbers are unclear, but estimates suggest a strength of around a thousand. AQ-M has the intent and capability to carry out terrorist attacks, including suicide bombings and kidnappings, against both regional and western, including British, interests. AQ-M claimed responsibility for the murder of a British citizen, Edwin Dyer, around 1 June 2009.