Vigilante Security Service and Crime Control in Keana Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Crimes have remained a clog in the wheel of progress that has derailed many communities from making meaningful development despite the efforts of Police to control crime in Nigeria. The study examines the relationship between vigilante security service at community level and crime control in Keana LGA. This was to properly document various initiatives adopted by the organisations in reducing criminal activities in rural areas. The study identified the reason for the formation of community vigilante security groups as recognised outfits of crime control in Keana LGA and strategies deployed by community vigilante security groups to fight and control criminal activities, as well as examined the effectiveness of community vigilante security groups in crime prevention and control. Quantitative method, applied using questionnaires instrument, was used to collect data from 381 respondents. The data were collected from residents of Keana LGA and were selected through multistage technique. The study concluded that vigilante security service played a critical role in crime control at the community level which complement the statutory function of the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement operatives.

Keywords: Crime control, Nigeria Police Force, community and vigilante security service.