Nature and Pattern of Carjacking Victimisation in Nigeria

Carjacking victimisation has emerged as a critical security challenge in Nigeria, marked by escalating incidents of vehicle theft, often involving violence, deception, and sophisticated criminal networks. Imagine having to park a vehicle and getting to see it sudden disappearance.  This study explores the nature, patterns, and contributing factors to carjacking in Nigerian cities, drawing on secondary data from newspaper reports spanning 2016 to 2025. Content analysis was used to explore broader idea of the phenomenon from three Nigerian newspapers.

The research reveals that carjacking is underreported due to public skepticism about recovery and weak institutional responses. Given that some victims feel reporting such case to the police is pointless and they might not recover the car back.  Offenders employ diverse tactics, ranging from physical attacks using blunt weapons or firearms to elaborate schemes exploiting trust or leveraging technology such as Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) cloning. Lagos and Abuja emerge as hotspots for such crimes, with commercial drivers, financial institutions, and even law enforcement personnel increasingly targeted. Crime like carjacking reflects deeper socio-economic issues including poverty, unemployment, and systemic vulnerabilities in cybersecurity and vehicle security systems.

Findings show the role of organized syndicates and the evolving nature of car theft, which now includes cyber-enabled methods. In response, authorities have introduced digital platforms like the Central Motor Registry Command Centre (CMRCC) to enhance reporting and tracking of stolen vehicles. Recommendations include improving vehicle security technologies, raising public awareness, strengthening community policing, and addressing underlying socio-economic disparities. This manuscript contributes valuable insights for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and the public, offering a comprehensive understanding of carjacking dynamics in Nigeria and informing strategies for prevention and intervention.