There has been a concerning surge in incidents of abduction throughout the nation. The affluent are not the sole targets of kidnappers; employees, students, and even children are also being victimized. Recently, a group of eight National Youth Service Corps members, along with their driver, were forcefully taken by terrorists on a highway in Zamfara State.
According to reports in the newspapers, these corps members were traveling in an AKTC bus from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to Sokoto State to partake in the compulsory national service. Moreover, the residents of Bwari, Abuja, have also expressed alarm over the increasing number of kidnappings in the area.
These attacks on helpless citizens are widespread across various regions of the country, including the North-East, South-South, North-Central, North-West, South-West, and South-East, due to the activities of Boko Haram terrorists, militant groups, gunmen, and other non-state actors.
Over the past decade, the Nigeria Security Tracker has documented more than 19,366 cases of abduction in 2,694 incidents. To mitigate the risk of kidnapping, it is crucial to raise awareness and create job opportunities for the youth.
7 Effective Measures to Prevent Kidnapping
Discover seven practical strategies to safeguard against kidnapping incidents. Explore a range of proactive approaches that can be employed to mitigate the risks associated with abduction.
By implementing these precautionary measures, you can significantly enhance personal safety and security. Learn valuable insights on how to fortify your defenses and stay protected from potential threats. Safeguard your loved ones and equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent kidnapping.
Stay informed and prepared to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and those around you.
Previous articles on security intelligence have offered various strategies for avoiding kidnappings, and this article aims to provide an updated approach to reducing the likelihood of being kidnapped.
By implementing these measures, individuals can enhance their safety and security.
Take a risk assessment
Individuals who are at a higher risk of being abducted can be effectively identified through a comprehensive assessment. People who hold influential positions and possess wealth in their communities are particularly vulnerable to kidnapping.
If the risk assessment reveals this threat, it is crucial to prioritize personal safety and take necessary measures for self-protection. This is especially true for individuals such as politicians, clergy members, humanitarian volunteers, oil industry employees, tourists, and corps members, as they face a greater likelihood of being targeted for abduction.
However, it is important to note that with the rise of terrorism and banditry, anyone can become a victim. It becomes imperative for individuals who identify themselves as persons of interest to take deliberate actions to ensure their own safety, including avoiding conflict-ridden regions.
Plan your trip in advance
When planning your trips, it is essential to research the current situation at your destination. It is important to gather information on even the smallest details. For example, familiarize yourself with the prominent landmarks along the route you will be taking.
Some roads are notorious for being hotspots for kidnappers, so during your research, you will likely receive valuable advice from individuals who frequently travel that route.
Listen to local news
Developing the practice of staying informed about local news through listening and reading is highly recommended in order to be aware of areas where kidnappings occur frequently.
It is crucial to be updated on current news, especially when traveling or passing through certain regions, as it enables you to respond appropriately.
In case of urgent trips to destinations marked as “kidnap zones,” it is advisable to reconsider the journey and explore alternative methods of communication such as the internet or different modes of transportation. Utilizing technology, such as video and social media calls, can significantly help reduce travel time and prevent kidnapping incidents.
Vet your employees
Employers must be cautious when it comes to potential kidnappings orchestrated by employees within an organization.
It is crucial to thoroughly screen individuals before hiring them, especially those in close proximity such as personal assistants, drivers, home helpers, and security guards.
Conducting background checks, verifying information about family members or guarantors, and keeping financial records confidential are essential steps to ensure safety. It is important not to share ATM card details with staff members to maintain security.
Ensure your online privacy
If you’re one of those individuals who like to showcase a life of luxury on social media, it’s important to remember that not everything you see online is authentic.
Many people may not actually own the extravagant cars, houses, clothes, and accessories they flaunt online. To ensure your safety, it’s advisable to hire bodyguards if you choose to display your lavish lifestyle.
Kidnappings often occur with the intention of extorting money from the victim’s family, so it’s crucial to be cautious about what you reveal on social media, especially if you lack adequate security measures. Activate the privacy features available on popular social media platforms to better protect yourself.
Keep emergency contact information handy
People should always be prepared for emergencies and have access to important phone numbers, including those of security operatives. These numbers can be used to report suspicious activity and ensure a swift response. It is also important to have the contact information of family members for reassurance and support during times of crisis.
The location mode feature on mobile phones can be extremely useful in emergency situations, allowing individuals to share their real-time location with trusted contacts or emergency responders.
By having these resources readily available, personal safety can be significantly enhanced, leading to timely assistance and potentially saving lives. It is crucial for everyone to be proactive in safeguarding themselves and their communities.
Identify threats and report them
If you find yourself in a situation where you are being targeted for kidnapping, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself.
One effective method is to draw attention to yourself by screaming or immersing yourself in a crowd. Creating a commotion by throwing or breaking objects can also attract attention and deter kidnappers, especially if they are not armed.
It is crucial to report any threats or concerns about kidnapping to the police. Additionally, consider undergoing self-defense training as a way to further safeguard yourself.
Action point
Implementing effective measures to prevent kidnapping is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals. Some key strategies include enhancing personal security awareness, educating children about abduction prevention, and establishing strong community networks.
By promoting safety precautions such as avoiding isolated areas and practicing vigilance, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of becoming victims of kidnapping. Additionally, implementing advanced security systems and working closely with law enforcement agencies can contribute to deterring potential kidnappers.