Nigeria is grappling with a profound security crisis, characterized by escalating terrorism, kidnappings, and associated violent threats. In this critical environment, collaboration between citizens and security forces becomes indispensable, despite challenges related to trust. Experts emphasize that public awareness and proactive reporting are fundamental to prevention.
The Eight Key Indicators of Terrorist Activity
Abiodun Ramon Oseni, a security specialist and former U.S. police officer, stresses that military force alone cannot eradicate terrorism. He argues that the collective effort of Nigerians, particularly in intelligence gathering, is vital. He identifies eight recognized phases or indicators of terrorist operations that the public should recognize and report.
From Surveillance to Deployment
Surveillance is often the first stage. Terrorists assess targets by studying routines, security layouts, and emergency response times. This can involve photographing facilities, acquiring blueprints, or simply observing daily life in a community.
Elicitation involves actively gathering information. Perpetrators may ask detailed questions about operations at places like power plants, schools, or crowded markets, either in person, by phone, or online, sometimes even by seeking employment at the target site.
During the Security Testing phase, terrorists probe defenses. They might leave a suspicious package to gauge reactions, attempt to breach restricted areas, or conduct dry runs to test security protocols.
Funding, Supplies, and Final Preparations
Funding is a critical enabler. Activities include large, unusual financial transactions, donations to dubious charities, or fundraising through illegal means like kidnapping for ransom, drug trafficking, or human trafficking. Scrutiny of corrupt financial flows is also highlighted.
Acquiring Supplies involves procuring materials for attacks. Signs include stockpiling weapons, chemicals like fertilizers for explosives, multiple "burner" phones, or unfamiliar vehicles parked in odd locations.
Impersonation is another red flag. Individuals may pose as law enforcement, utility workers, or other officials, sometimes in ill-fitting or unconvincing uniforms, to gain access or avoid suspicion.
Rehearsal sees terrorists practicing their plans. They may monitor police radio channels, time response routes, or conduct full-scale drills to ensure operational success.
Finally, Deployment is the active stage where operatives move into position, organize resources, and prepare to execute an attack.
A Collective Responsibility for Security
Oseni concludes that defeating terrorism and banditry is a shared duty. He urges Nigerians to report any of these suspicious signs immediately to local authorities, emphasizing that police should never request payment for reporting an incident. The mantra "if you see something, say something" is presented as a cornerstone of national security, where every citizen's vigilance contributes to the nation's safety.
The article was contributed by Abiodun Ramon Oseni, a Fellow at the Institute of Security Nigeria, a U.S. Army veteran, former U.S. Police officer, and specialist in international security affiliated with Harvard University and American Military University.
