United States Consulate General in Lagos alerted Nigerians, on Tuesday, to the “notable increase in crime in Lagos”, particularly in Ikoyi and Victoria Island.
The Consulate in a security alert it issued noted that there were reports that Ikoyi and Victoria Island had become notorious for incidents of smash-and-grabs and robberies in recent times.
It stated, “Typically, men on a motorcycle will follow a vehicle until it stops at a traffic light or intersection then approach the vehicle, present a weapon, and rob the occupants.
“Although most of these incidents happen at night, the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos has received reports of robberies taking place during daylight hours.”
The Consulate, therefore, warned that in order not to fall victim, members of the public should avoid travelling in the area beyond 10pm.
It also warned the public against helping strangers on the road at night.
The US Consulate’s statement further read, “Keep vehicle doors locked and windows rolled up at all times while driving, especially in traffic jams or at traffic lights. Avoid driving alone at night and do not stop to help strangers on the road.
“Ensure that valuables such as cash, laptops, phones, cameras, bags, etc. are kept out of sight. Park your vehicle in areas that are well lit.
“Survey the area around your vehicle before you approach and be aware of suspicious people. Try to use main roads and avoid taking side roads at night.
“Do not carry original documents such as your passport unless necessary. Do not walk alone at night. Carry only the amount of cash you will need.”
It added, “Be aware of your surroundings. Keep a low profile. Stay alert in public places, including schools, hospitals, government facilities, places of worship, tourist locations, and transportation hubs.
“Review and alter travel routes and times to reduce time and place predictability. Avoid crowds and demonstration. Exercise caution when walking or driving at night. Carry proper ID. Review your personal security plans. Monitor local media for updates. Review the Travel Advisory for Nigeria.”
Lagos State Police Command recently deployed 1,000 policemen to the flashpoints and along most of the major routes in the state as part of the security measures to check traffic robbery.
On the “Actions To Take,” the Consulate added,
“Be aware of your surroundings.
Keep a low profile.
Stay alert in public places, including schools, hospitals, government facilities, places of worship, tourist locations, and transportation hubs.
Review and alter travel routes and times to reduce time and place predictability.
Avoid crowds and demonstrations. Exercise caution when walking or driving at night.
Carry proper ID. Review your personal security plans.
Monitor local media for updates.”