IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS AMIDST RISE IN KIDNAPPING. (PHOTO).

Important safety tips amidst rise in kidnapping

Kidnapping has been a persistent and concerning issue in Nigeria, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has not been immune to this security challenge.

The crime of kidnapping involves the abduction of individuals for ransom or other motives, and it has posed a significant threat to the safety and well-being of people across the country.

In the FCT, the incidence of kidnapping, especially on the highway, is often reported, raising concerns about the security landscape in the nation’s capital.

Criminal elements often take advantage of various factors, such as porous security, inadequate law enforcement, and sometimes the socio-economic vulnerabilities of the victims, to perpetrate evil.

The recent case in the Federal Capital Territory was in Sagwari Layout Estate in Duste Bwari on January 7, where some of the residents of the estate witnessed their loved ones taken away.

The bandits, posing as security personnel, abducted nine persons from their houses along with two employees from a nearby hotel and took them into the hills behind the estate.

In a related development, about 40 bandits stormed the Kawu community in Bwari Area Council of the FCT on Thursday, January 12, and abducted 23 people.

The incident occurred barely 24 hours after reports indicated that terrorists had abducted 85 people at Katari along the Kaduna-Abuja highway near Katari, in the Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in one of its lecture modules, linked kidnapping to the financing of terrorism.

A security expert, Otunba Bolaji Adigun, who said kidnapping is a global problem, pointed out that unemployment, poverty, illiteracy, religion, greed, politics and corruption are some of the root causes of this criminal act.

Given the alarming number of attacks, many are left contemplating what measures to take in order to avoid becoming victims, Otunba Bolaji gave some tips and advise.

How to prevent kidnapping

Avoid Routine Movements: Continuously using the same route, whether driving or walking, will make it easy for potential abductors to gather information about you, making it easier for them to track you when they decide to strike. Explore alternative streets or highways to vary your routine and enhance your security.

Avoid Flamboyant Lifestyle: Avoid displaying your wealth conspicuously to prevent drawing the attention of criminals. This means refraining from showcasing expensive possessions or engaging in behaviours that may signal affluence to reduce the risk of becoming a target for theft, robbery, or other criminal activities.

Avoid Oversharing Online: Do not disclose too much personal information about oneself and family members on social media platforms. Sharing limited information online can contribute to a safer online presence and safeguard against potential risks associated with overexposure on social media.

There is no need to flaunt new cars, houses, and properties. Refrain from disclosing your address and ensure to disable the GPS function on your smartphones. Be cautious about sharing your frequent locations on social media.

Some individuals may not be aware that platforms like Facebook disclose the precise location from which you are posting on social media.

Keep Financial Transactions Confidential: Criminals may exploit leaked financial information for targeted attacks. Keeping transactions confidential safeguards individuals from being specifically targeted for financial crimes or other malicious activities.

The most logical way to avoid these unnecessary attentions is not to reveal your financial history to anyone! Vital information like your bank statement of account should not be handled carelessly.

Monitor Local News: Certain areas are more prone to kidnappings, often referred to as kidnap zones. If you find yourself travelling to or passing through such regions, it is crucial to stay informed through news updates. This awareness helps you understand when to seek cover or consider altering your route to enhance safety.

Keep Emergency Numbers: Having readily available contact information for emergency services, such as police, fire, or medical help, can significantly reduce response time during critical moments. It will also allow people to play an active role in community safety.

Similarly, maintaining emergency numbers for family members or trusted contacts is vital for personal safety. In case of unforeseen circumstances, such as getting lost or encountering danger, being able to reach out to loved ones promptly can provide a sense of security and facilitate timely assistance.

Do Not Accept Rides from Strangers: Once you get into a stranger’s car, you are at their mercy. They could either incapacitate you or keep you hostage, and you may not get a chance to defend yourself.

Refusing rides from strangers is a fundamental security tip aimed at minimising risks associated with personal safety, abduction, assault, scams, and maintaining control over one’s transportation choices. It is a proactive measure to prioritise individual safety and well-being.