Communities across the country are raising serious alarm as a surge in criminal activities heightens concerns about public safety. Residents in both urban and semi-urban areas say the recent rise in robberies, break-ins, and violent attacks has created an atmosphere of fear that is reshaping everyday life.
In many neighbourhoods, late-night movement has drastically reduced, with families opting to stay indoors once it gets dark. Local associations have begun organising volunteer patrols and emergency alert groups to fill the gap left by overstretched security agencies.
Some communities have even introduced whistle-watch systems and neighbourhood apps to quickly report suspicious activities.
Residents say the spike in crime is being fuelled by worsening economic pressures and rising unemployment, which have pushed more young people toward desperate means.
Community leaders warn that if the trend continues, even previously peaceful areas may become dangerous zones.
Security analysts are urging government authorities to act quickly by strengthening policing capacity, improving surveillance systems, and partnering with community structures to track criminal operations more efficiently.
As fear grows and trust in safety structures weakens, citizens are calling for immediate intervention. Their demand is clear: they want their streets safe again — and they want it now.