On 15 April 2020, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria issued a Health Alert, which reads in part as follows:
“Event: Increased Criminal Activity
“As we enter the third week of lockdowns in Lagos and Ogun States, and the Federal Capital Territory, reports of criminal activity are ongoing, including aggressive panhandling, robberies, and kidnappings. As the lockdowns continue, becoming a victim of crime remains a possibility.
“Please minimize travel outside of the home and use caution while traveling, maintain situational awareness, and exercise prudent security measures. Maintain a low profile and do not attract attention to yourself. Stay away from beaches and waterways and leave your home only during daylight to go to work or grocery stores.”
Analyst Comment: The issuance of this alert follows the Nigerian police force’s announcement on 13 April that it had arrested at least 191 suspects in connection with a recent spate of armed robberies and criminal incidents in Lagos and Ogun states, both of which are currently under federally mandated statewide lockdowns. The majority of these crimes have occurred in the northern outskirts of Lagos, near the border with Ogun state. Additional police officers have deployed to these areas and are conducting increased patrols in residential areas and near shopping centers.
