Residents in estates around the Efab bridge along the Abuja Kubwa Express Road are living in growing fear due to a recent surge in criminal activities, including kidnappings, robberies, and knife attacks. Over the past two weeks, those living in estates such as Efab Metropolitan, Mab Global, IPENT, and Efab Queens have been on edge as the area has become a hotspot for criminal elements preying on unsuspecting people.

The rise in criminality has been particularly alarming, with incidents occurring around the Efab bridge and the intersection that links over 11 estates in the Karsana District. The area has gained a reputation for danger, exacerbated by the increasing number of residents moving into newly built estates nearby.

In the past, the police, particularly the Gwarimpa division, had responded to residents’ pleas for security by deploying officers to the area, which temporarily reduced criminal incidents and provided relief, especially for those returning home late from work. However, the recent withdrawal of regular police patrols has seemingly emboldened criminals, leading to a resurgence of violence and crime.

The residents, deeply troubled by the renewed wave of crime, have resorted to alerting each other through community WhatsApp platforms and have taken steps like removing shanties and street hawkers to deter criminals. Despite the Police Public Relations Officer, Ms. Josephine Adeh, denying any security issues in the area, local estate leadership has issued warnings confirming credible threats, urging residents to exercise caution and take extra safety measures.