There is a disturbing rise in kidnapping across Nigeria and this calls for very serious concern.
It is not certain that the observance of all precautionary measures known to us can stop individuals from being kidnapped.
Hence, in the unlikely event that one gets kidnapped, surviving the ordeal should be the next course of action.
Below are 12 tips for surviving in the hands of kidnappers, as advised by Mr. Frank Mba, the spokesman of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
1. Take a deep breath
Assure yourself that you will certainly come back alive. Note that the first few minutes of abduction or kidnapping is the most critical and hostile period. At this stage, the kidnappers are also afraid for their lives. Failure on their part means they could be arrested and prosecuted. They are therefore jittery and any suspicious move by you could make them pull the trigger at you.
2. Cooperate
Having tried to avoid the kidnap situation and failing, the most important option should be to cooperate as unplanned attempt to escape may become too risky.
3. No facial contact
Avoid openly making any facial contact with the kidnappers, but try and memorize their description, if you get the opportunity to view them without endangering your life.
4. Be observant
Keep a mental note of the landmark especially the shops, supermarket, fuel stations, buildings around the area the kidnappers are taking you to if you are not blindfolded by your captors.
5. Obedience is better
Obey all instructions from the kidnappers and avoid any unnecessary argument with them.
6. Provocation leads to death
Avoid behaviors or attitude that will provoke the kidnappers.
7. Listen!
Listen to their conversation and keep a mental note of the details about their names, accent, slangs and other information about the abductors to assist the police in the investigation after your rescue.
8. Nag less
Try to avoid too much complaint so they do not get tired of you and kill you.
9. Stay healthy
Try to stay healthy. Avoid anything that will make you sustain a physical injury as getting medical attention might be difficult. More so, as you do not know how soon you will be rescued or freed.
10. Play the game, win their trust
Gradually try to win the kidnappers trust. Try playing mind games with them especially with any of them you consider less hardened. For instance show empathy to the kidnappers even if you are acting it. If for example, they claim they were driven into kidnapping for reason of unemployment, tell them you understand and blame someone else for not providing them a decent job. You may try talking them into pitying you or putting yourself in any of their relatives’ shoes.
11. Duck! Take Cover!!
During Police rescue operation, lie on the floor to prevent stray bullet from hitting you. Identify yourself to the rescuers as soon as it is safe to do so.
12. Have an escape plan
Plan your escape only if it is absolutely safe to do so. This should be your last resort and remember, there is no escape plan that is absolutely risk-free.
