In a security alert obtained by our correspondent, the secret police called for improved security measures to be put in place to forestall possible danger along the route.
The security memo dated August 11, 2023 addressed to NRC Managing Director, titled, “Impending Threat by a Coalition of Banditry Syndicate to Attack Abuja-Kaduna Train Service Along the AKTS Corridor, read: “Intelligence report indicates impending threat to seamless train transportation along the Abuja – Kaduna Train Service (AKTS). The development is sequel to the plot by a coalition of banditry syndicate to attack Abuja – Kaduna Train Service aimed at kidnapping passengers on board for ransom any moment from now.
“In view of the threat inherent and the need to forestall likely breach of security along the AKTS, it is advised that existing security arrangements be scaled up within and along the route. In addition, the need for the under listed counter security measures be emplaced to nip in the bud the impending threats- Air surveillance patrol; Surveillance on the rail track; Military checkpoint/patrol and Police checkpoint/patrol,”
The secret police also called for a security raid operation around Byazhin, Jibi, as well as lja forest, while calling for efforts to “Enhance the Nigeria Police Mobile Force (NPMF) operatives with walkie talkie to sustain escort services on train as well as
“Deploy more Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) with walkie talkie to provide escort duty.”
On March 28, 2022, bandits ambushed a Kaduna-bound train, leading to the killings of at least seven persons while over a hundred were abducted and their family members made to pay huge ransom before their release.