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Kidnappings for ransom have increased in Lagos, Nigeria, with several cases reported in recent weeks. Even areas that were previously free of abductions are now considered high-risk. Citizens should be cautious and vigilant to avoid becoming victims.
ONLY BOARD DESIGNATED COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
When taking public transportation, only board designated commercial vehicles from authorized parks. Accepting rides from private, unmarked cars increases the risk of kidnap. To avoid late nights on long-distance trips, travel in the morning and stay in hotels.
AVOID NIGHT COMMUTES
When possible, avoid night commutes because the majority of kidnappings take place after dark. The presence of more people on the roads during the day also increases the chances of being rescued if you are targeted.
TURN OFF BANK CREDIT ALERTS
Turn off bank credit alerts on phones, as kidnappers can use messages to calculate potential ransom amounts. Delete any text that indicates income or assets.
AVOID RIDES, FOOD, OR BEVERAGES FROM STRANGERS
Never accept rides, food, or beverages from strangers. Anything can be used to drug and kidnap unsuspecting victims. Teach children not to accept gifts from strangers while avoiding paranoia.
AVOID MAKING PUBLIC DONATIONS, FLASHY DISPLAYS, OR MONEY SPRAYING AT EVENTS
Avoid making public donations, flashy displays, or money spraying at events that could attract unwanted attention. Avoid openly flaunting your wealth. Keeping a low profile is essential for avoiding kidnappers looking for lucrative targets.
BE VIGILANT, SMART, AND INCONSPICUOUS IN PUBLIC
The best defenses Lagos residents have against the recent wave of kidnappings are to stay vigilant, smart, and inconspicuous in public. Avoiding high-risk situations reduces the likelihood of being victimized.
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