Car Theft Surge Alarms FCT Residents Amid Rising Insecurity

Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are expressing growing concern over a significant increase in car thefts, attributing the surge to economic hardship and inadequate security measures.

Victims have shared distressing accounts of their experiences. Kayode Lawal recounted how his Sienna minivan was stolen within minutes after he parked it along Keffi Road in Nasarawa State to make a quick purchase. Despite reporting the incident to both the Department of State Services (DSS) and the local police, efforts to recover his vehicle have been unsuccessful. “I tried all I could do as a human being but could not find the vehicle,” Lawal lamented. “It is painful, the way and manner in which the issue of car theft is getting higher and higher.”

Another resident, Sunday Eche, described how his Toyota Camry was vandalized overnight, with vital components stolen despite being parked securely in front of his residence. He emphasized that the perpetrators appeared to be skilled professionals, given the precision and speed of the theft.

Security experts have noted that many of these thefts are carried out by individuals with specialized knowledge of automobiles, suggesting a level of organization and expertise among the criminals. The ease with which vehicles are stolen or stripped of parts points to a broader issue of sophisticated criminal networks operating within the region.

Residents are calling on the government to intensify efforts to combat this growing menace. Sule Adamu, a local community leader, attributed the rise in car thefts to the prevailing economic challenges and inadequate security infrastructure. “What do you expect; there is hunger in the land; that can be part of the problem; it is only God that is keeping us with the porous security system we have,” Adamu stated.

In response to the escalating situation, authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures, such as installing anti-theft devices, parking in well-lit areas, and promptly reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.

As the FCT grapples with this surge in car thefts, the collective efforts of the government, security agencies, and the community will be crucial in addressing and mitigating this pressing issue.