Residents Alarmed as Crime Surge Hits Estates Around Efab Bridge
Abuja, Nigeria – Residents of estates around the Efab bridge along the Abuja-Kubwa Express Road are facing escalating fear as criminal activities, including kidnappings, robberies, and attacks, have surged in the area over the past two weeks. The Efab Metropolitan Estate, Mab Global Estate, IPENT Estate, and Efab Queens Estate, among others, are particularly affected.
Recent investigations revealed that criminals have been targeting residents at the Efab bridge and the nearby intersection, which links over 11 estates. Notable incidents include carjackings, knife attacks, attempted kidnappings, and robberies. The area has gained notoriety for such crimes, coinciding with an increase in new residents moving into estates in the Karsana District.
In one alarming case from last year, kidnappers abducted the wife of a retired permanent secretary from Efab Metropolitan Estate, who had stopped at the intersection to buy fruits. The family reportedly paid a significant ransom for her release. This case marked the second kidnapping incident in the area, adding to a growing list of violent crimes.
In response, the Gwarimpa Police Division had deployed a team to the area, providing temporary relief for residents, particularly those returning home late from work. The police presence had a positive impact, with no reported crimes during their stay. However, the recent withdrawal of police patrols has reportedly emboldened the criminals.
On Wednesday, concerned residents alerted their community through WhatsApp, urging vigilance and caution. Despite these warnings, Police Public Relations Officer Ms. Josephine Adeh denied any current insecurity in the area, stating, “This is not true.”
Contrarily, a leadership post from one of the estates confirmed the rising security threats, advising homeowners to exercise increased caution. The post read: “There have been incidents of carjacking, stabbings, attempted kidnapping, and robberies around the Efab bridge in the past two weeks. Please be cautious and take extra precautions to ensure your safety.”
The situation remains tense as residents and local authorities grapple with the rising crime wave affecting their community.