By Divine Sam
The situation in the Saburi residential district of Abuja is dire, as residents face persistent attacks from armed robbers. These hoodlums, often masked, have been carrying out violent robberies since the end of 2024, terrorizing locals with weapons such as machetes and guns. Several residents, including a security guard who was brutally attacked, have shared harrowing accounts of these attacks. The robbers, sometimes numbering over 30, have made off with valuables and cash, leaving victims traumatized.
Residents are particularly concerned about the slow or lack of response from local law enforcement. Despite being located near police and military forces, they report that authorities are either slow to act or claim the area falls outside their jurisdiction. This has led the community to take matters into their own hands, with locals stepping up as security guards at night.
The thieves often use scavengers to scout the area before striking, a tactic that residents believe has allowed them to plan their attacks with precision. The fear is palpable, with some community leaders calling for urgent intervention from both the government and the police to curb the violence.
In the face of these relentless attacks, the Saburi community is pleading for greater protection and action to prevent further loss and suffering.