bvi.co.bw listed by the lockbit5 ransomware group

Overview

On 15 May 2026, the LockBit 5 ransomware group listed the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI) on its data leak site. BVI is an animal health organisation based in Botswana with more than 45 years of operation, producing vaccines for livestock diseases that affect the region's agricultural economy.

What was published

The LockBit 5 listing identified BVI as a victim but did not disclose the volume or categories of exfiltrated data. The group's disclosure format includes a company description and a threat to publish files. No archive linked to BVI was observed on the leak site during analysis.

Risks for affected individuals

BVI staff and the farmers and veterinary partners it serves could be exposed if personnel records, research documents or client data were stolen. Agricultural data and vaccine distribution records could also be used for targeted fraud or misinformation campaigns.

What remains unknown

The extent of the data exfiltration, the specific records involved, and the outcome of the group's deadline are not confirmed. BVI has not published a statement about the incident, and the claim rests on the leak site listing.

What affected people should do

Employees and partners of BVI should verify official communications, reset credentials for systems linked to the institute, and report suspicious messages referencing vaccine programmes or veterinary services.