Nigeria occupies the number six position on the list of countries with high rate of kidnapping, while the first is India. We are likely going to experience increase in this sort of criminality from now till the end of January next year if the prediction of DSS should be taken seriously. Kindly consider the tips below and share with your friends and family members.
GUARD AGAINST BEING KIDNAPPED
· Vary your routes as well as the timing when going out and coming in.
· Driving in the centre lane of a multiple lane highway makes it difficult for the car to be forced off the road.
· Don’t leave your children in a car unattended to, particularly while shopping, refueling, etc.
· There is safety in numbers. Avoid going out and jogging alone or being in a park or beach alone.
· All information about your business, financial transactions, travels and movements MUST not be accessible to all.
· Keep a low profile and avoid late night outing and lonely places.
* Domestic help e.g. House help, Drivers and Cooks should be properly vetted and appropriately referenced with reputable guarantors before engagement.
· Always look out for cars that may be trailing you. Go round a Round-About or neighborhood twice to confirm any suspicion. If affirmative, note the occupants and brand of vehicle and CALMLY drive to a police station or populated Filling Station to seek refuge.
SURVIVING HOSTAGE SITUATIONS
*Do not be a hero. At the time of your seizure, do not fight back, talk back or attempt to aggravate the hostage-takers.
· The first 15 to 45 minutes of a hostage situation is the most dangerous. Follow the instructions of your captors; they are in a highly emotional state and could be deadly. Your job is to survive.
· As a result of the hostage situation, you may have difficulty retaining fluids and may experience a loss of appetite and weight. Try to drink water and eat food even if you are not hungry. It is important to maintain strength.
· If there is a rescue attempt by force, drop quickly to the floor and seek cover. Keep your hands on your head. When appropriate, identify yourself.
· Escape only if you are sure you will be successful. If you are caught, your captors may use violence to teach you, and possibly others a lesson. Suggest ways you may be of benefit to your captors in negotiations that could lead to your freedom. Never plead, beg or cry.
NB
For Lagos State residents, in times of emergency, call 767 or 112, toll free emergency hotlines, the Police Command Control room on 08060357795 or the Rapid Response Squad control room 01-7745705—6 ,if not contact the nearest police station.
Please stay safe.