Nature of Traffic Robbery Victimisation Experience in Lagos

Abstract

Traffic robbery is a prevalent disturbing social phenomenon in Lagos State, impacting commuters and transport workers, necessitating an examination of victimization experiences and offender- victim dynamics. The research investigated the nature of traffic robbery victimization experiences, strategies employed by offenders, and the extent of the crime as reported in newspapers. Utilizing content analysis, the study examined 167 traffic robbery cases from 2015 to 2023 as reported in five newspapers using the routine activity theory to understand the dynamics between offenders and victims. The research also discussed the victimization experience and convergence of the offenders and victims, it documented the extent of the crime as captured by various newspapers (Vanguard, Punch. Tribune, Sun and Guardian), and also interrogated the strategies or methods deployed by traffic robbers. The study further addressed the nature and extent of traffic robbery victimization experiences, shedding light on the dynamics of the crime over an eight-year period. Consequently, the common method used by offenders is dispossessing victims of their valuables, leading to fear-driven victim experiences, with spikes in incidents observed in June and December, particularly in Vanguard and Punch publications. Findings reveal that incidents like traffic robbery are fear-driven. Commonly used methods by the offenders include the dispossession of victims' phones and other valuables, and the use of guns. Mitigating crime like traffic robbery in Lagos requires government intervention in providing adequate security personnel to deter and apprehend criminals, improving road infrastructure, enhancing street lighting, and creating job opportunities for vulnerable youth to keep them engaged with activities that would shift their attention from crime and make them productive.