Residents across communities in Kaduna State have expressed growing concerns over security threats linked to suspicious commercial motorcycle activities and increasing cases of fake bank transfer scams affecting traders and business owners.
The concerns were raised during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Regional Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) Network under the Empowering Community Security (ECOS) Project.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Coordinator of the EWER Network in Kaduna State, Eric John, participants reviewed security developments and response efforts in Chikun, Kajuru, Kachia and Kagarko Local Government Areas.
According to the statement, residents voiced fears over emerging criminal activities and worsening economic challenges within the affected communities.
The network disclosed that between January and May 18, 2026, a total of 16 security-related early warning reports were received and escalated for action.
Stakeholders at the meeting raised alarm over the increasing number of unidentified commercial motorcycle riders operating within Kaduna metropolis and surrounding communities.
They alleged that some riders rent houses and stay in hotels without proper identification, creating anxiety among residents already dealing with insecurity challenges.
Participants also expressed concern over reports of armed herders allegedly moving into rural communities in Kajuru, Chikun, Kachia and Kagarko LGAs, warning that the situation could trigger attacks, destruction of farmlands and renewed communal tensions.
However, the meeting dismissed reports claiming that hoodlums had taken refuge at the Sabon Tasha abattoir, stating that investigations conducted by the Sabon Tasha Police Division found the allegations to be false.
Stakeholders cautioned residents against spreading unverified information capable of causing panic and unrest within communities.
The meeting further highlighted the growing cases of fake bank transfer alerts targeting traders and small-scale business owners across Kaduna communities.
Several victims were reportedly defrauded after releasing goods to customers based on fraudulent payment notifications later discovered to be fake.
Participants also identified rising ram prices ahead of the festive season and increasing incidents of ram theft as additional economic and security concerns.
They called for stronger collaboration between security agencies, community leaders, civil society organisations, media practitioners and residents to improve intelligence gathering and early response efforts.
Residents were advised to remain vigilant, verify bank payments before releasing goods and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies and community leaders.
The stakeholders also urged the Kaduna State Government and security agencies to strengthen monitoring and registration of commercial motorcycle operators, intensify surveillance in vulnerable communities and improve efforts against cyber-related financial crimes and livestock theft.
