NIGERIA: How to avoid entering “One Chance” vehicles
As a result of an increase in crime rate in Nigeria in the past months, it has become extremely important that citizens become very cautious about their surroundings as they go about their daily businesses.
In-between rushing to get vehicles to navigate their destinations, many persons have fallen victims to robbery after boarding vehicles that have been arranged by criminals to rob them of their valuables. This is popularly called “One Chance”.
While some have been lucky to only lose valuables, some victims never lived to tell the stories.
Here are some of the precautions to take when going about your daily businesses.
1. If you can, make sure to board buses at designated parks or bus-stops
Avoid boarding vehicles at deserted or overly quiet areas. Even if you have to rush out early in the morning and return late at night, make it a duty to move to places you’ll see other commuters.
2. Avoid rushing to board any vehicle, no matter how late you are
Take your time. Observe the vehicle, the number plate and persons inside. The criminals usually take advantage of lack of available vehicles at crowded bus stops.
3. Be wary of vehicles offering extremely cheap fares
Yes. More often than not, these criminals lure unsuspecting victims with cheap fares. If it’s cheaper than normal, don’t enter.
4. Privately owned buses are very suspect
Hence you should be very cautious before jumping into a privately owned bus or car. If you must board that private car, note the number plate and send to a close relative.
5. Be careful about boarding vehicles with all-male passengers
When attempting to board a vehicle and the sitting passengers are all male, be very cautious. Some, however, include one or two females.
6. Be calm
If by any chance you find yourself in a “one chance” vehicle, remain calm. Don’t struggle with the criminals, as that could lead to them inflicting bodily harm. More often than not, they are after the valuables.
If, however, you can manage to draw people’s attention to the vehicle or send out a message, ensure you do so.
NOTE: While these tips aren’t a guarantee that citizens would avoid these criminals, they will go a long way in reducing the chances of falling victims.
Be cautious, be safe.
