Kaduna Communities Raise Alarm Over Suspicious Okada Riders, Fake Transfer Scams
The concerns were highlighted during a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Regional Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) Network under the Empowering Community Security (ECOS) Project.
In a statement issued by the Kaduna State Coordinator of the EWER Network, Eric John, participants reviewed recent security developments across Chikun, Kajuru, Kachia and Kagarko Local Government Areas.
According to the statement, communities have continued to witness emerging criminal activities and worsening economic pressures, prompting calls for stronger vigilance and coordinated response measures.
Stakeholders at the meeting expressed concern over the growing number of unidentified commercial motorcycle riders operating within Kaduna metropolis and surrounding communities.
Participants alleged that some of the riders rent houses and lodge in hotels without proper means of identification, creating fear among residents already battling insecurity challenges.
The meeting also raised concerns over reports of armed herders allegedly relocating into rural communities in Kajuru, Chikun, Kachia and Kagarko LGAs, with fears that the situation could lead to attacks, destruction of farmlands and renewed communal tensions.
However, the stakeholders dismissed rumours claiming that criminals had taken refuge at the Sabon Tasha abattoir, stating that investigations by the Sabon Tasha Police Division found no evidence supporting the allegations.
Residents were cautioned against spreading unverified information capable of creating panic and tension within communities.
The meeting further identified the increasing use of fake bank transfer alerts by fraudsters to deceive traders and small-scale business owners.
According to participants, several business owners had reportedly released goods to customers after receiving fraudulent payment notifications later discovered to be fake.
Stakeholders also pointed to rising ram prices ahead of the festive season and increasing incidents of ram theft as additional concerns affecting residents.
Participants called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, traditional leaders, civil society groups, media organisations and community members to improve intelligence sharing and early response mechanisms.
Residents were advised to remain vigilant, properly verify bank payments before releasing goods and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to relevant authorities.
The stakeholders also urged the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to strengthen the monitoring and registration of commercial motorcycle operators, intensify surveillance in vulnerable areas and improve efforts against cyber-related financial crimes and livestock theft.
