By SAMSON EBIRIRE
Dong village in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State is gripped by fear and uncertainty due to the increasing threat of kidnapping.
Located in the Gwong District with a zip code of 930105, Dong shares boundaries with neighbouring villages such as Kabong, Fai Farin and Rantya. The community, predominantly inhabited by the Berom and Afizere tribes, is known for its vibrant markets, fertile farmlands and rich mineral deposits.
Residents say the village has become a target for criminal elements because of the absence of adequate security presence. “The lack of security measures in the community has made it an attractive target for kidnappers,” stated Mr Isaac.
Despite being part of the Jos metropolis, which should ordinarily imply better security coverage, Dong remains under siege by kidnappers who operate freely.
A resident, who preferred anonymity, lamented, “It may surprise you to know that our community does not have a single police post, but with the help of some individuals, security personnel and their dedication to tackle this situation, things are now getting better.”
Another resident, Mrs James, decried the slow response of security operatives, saying, “When security breach incidents take place, we wait for hours before any response comes.”
Mr Andrew, a business owner, attributed the problem partly to the community’s layout. “The community’s structure, with homes having weaker security and proximity to bushy or wooded areas, makes it easier for attackers to ambush or infiltrate,” he disclosed.
Similarly, Miss Sandra Dung expressed frustration, saying, “Despite being close to the Jos metropolis, Dong continues to experience significant kidnappings.”
The residents are therefore crying out for urgent government attention and enhanced security presence. They are demanding the establishment of a police post, deployment of more security personnel and the installation of surveillance systems to help monitor the area.
A security personnel noted the economic and social toll of the situation. “The socioeconomic impact of kidnapping on the community is significant,” he explained, adding that frequent attacks have caused many businesses to close or relocate while residents suffer psychological trauma, particularly women and children.
The persistent insecurity has also crippled farming and mining, major economic activities in the area. Many residents can no longer access their farmlands and mining operations have been halted, leading to declining living standards.
Mr Kola, another resident, highlighted the community’s vulnerability. “The lack of a dedicated police post means residents have to wait for hours before getting any response to security threats,” he said, adding that “the absence of security cameras and other surveillance systems further worsens the situation, as kidnappers can easily plan and execute their attacks without being detected.”
Mr Long proposed several measures to address the crisis. “A dedicated police post should be established in the area to provide immediate response to security threats,” he said. “Security personnel should also be deployed to provide visible presence and deter kidnappers, while surveillance systems like CCTV cameras should be installed to monitor movements.”
He further suggested that the community should be involved in local policing efforts and that the government should support victims and their families.
A student leader resident in Dong remarked, “The vulnerability of Dong village to kidnapping is a direct result of the lack of security measures.”
Mrs Emily Tanko appealed to the government and security agencies to act swiftly. “The government must take immediate action to address this security gap and provide adequate protection to the residents of Dong,” she said.
Residents insist that they deserve to live in peace and safety. “The people of Dong deserve to live in safety and security, and it’s time their pleas are heard,” several respondents emphasised, adding that the establishment of a dedicated police post, deployment of personnel and installation of surveillance systems would go a long way in addressing the insecurity ravaging the community.