“Surge in Demand for Bulletproof Vehicles Amid Rising Kidnappings: Dealers Bemoan Forex Crisis

“Rising Kidnapping Incidents Drive Surge in Demand for Bulletproof Vehicles

Against the backdrop of the alarming abduction wave sweeping across the nation, there has been a notable uptick in the demand for bulletproof vehicles, particularly among Very Important Persons (VIPs) and affluent individuals, reports The PUNCH. Armoured vehicle dealers, in conversations with The PUNCH, confirmed a significant increase in sales of customised bulletproof Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) as the kidnapping epidemic continues to intensify.

In recent weeks, armed gangs operating from various forests have brazenly targeted major cities and urban centers, perpetrating abductions and demanding exorbitant ransoms. This distressing trend has prompted victims and families of abductees to resort to crowd-funding for ransom payments, often seeking assistance from relatives, associates, and social media platforms.

Despite warnings from both the Federal Government and law enforcement agencies cautioning against the dangerous practice of crowd-funding for ransom, the dire circumstances faced by victims and their families have led to desperate measures. The escalating prevalence of kidnappings has instilled a sense of urgency among affluent Nigerians to prioritize personal security, leading to heightened demand for protective measures such as bulletproof vehicles.

As the country grapples with the relentless scourge of kidnapping, stakeholders continue to seek solutions to mitigate the crisis and restore safety and security for all citizens.”