Kidnappers Take Over Nigeria, Issue Threat Calls and Collect ‘Protection Money’ From Locals

Kidnappers Take Over Nigeria, Issue Threat Calls and Collect ‘Protection Money’ From Locals

Residents of Zaki Biam in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State are raising alarm over a dangerous spike in criminal activities, as kidnapping gangs, motorcycle thieves, and suspected cult groups continue to unleash fear on the community.

According to multiple residents, criminal syndicates have escalated operations in recent weeks, issuing direct threats to targeted individuals and demanding money to avoid abduction. The disturbing trend has left many residents living in constant fear, unsure of who might be the next victim.

One resident, quoted earlier by Vanguard, described the atmosphere as unbearable.

"People are scared because these callers sound serious and very coordinated. We need urgent help before things get out of hand," he lamented.

But the fear does not end there. A suspected cult group is said to be holding regular meetings at a shop believed to belong to their leader, located at the former SSS office along the Yam Market bypass heading to the Mechanic Site.

Residents say these gatherings—often held both in broad daylight and late into the night—have heightened anxiety, as no one knows what the group may be planning.

The crime wave has also triggered a sharp rise in motorcycle snatching, with riders increasingly targeted after dark. In a town where motorcycles serve as the major means of transportation and livelihood, the situation has forced many to limit movement once night falls.

"Motorcycle snatching has escalated in recent weeks. People are now afraid to move around once it gets dark," another resident said.

However, the most frightening development is the kidnappers' new strategy of issuing direct payment demands. In one case, a POS operator was reportedly forced to transfer ₦100,000 after receiving a chilling phone call from unknown gunmen threatening to abduct him if he failed to comply.

"Imagine being told to send money or be taken away. That is the kind of fear we live with every day," he said.

Residents are now pleading for urgent intervention from security agencies and government authorities, warning that the situation is deteriorating rapidly.

"We are appealing to the government and security operatives to come to our rescue. Lives and property are no longer safe. Something must be done urgently," a distressed resident told Glintnews.

Attempts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful, as calls to his phone were not returned at the time of filing this report.