New Tactics Used by Tricycle Robbers to Steal Phones, Valuables in Lagos Exposed

Robbers in Lagos have adopted a new strategy to steal from unsuspecting commuters using commercial tricycles, commonly known as ‘Keke Napep.’ Victims have recounted incidents where these criminals, posing as tricycle operators and fellow passengers, use distractions to snatch valuables, particularly mobile phones.

One of the victims, a journalist, lost his iPhone 15 Pro Max—valued at over a million Naira—after boarding a tricycle near the Area C Police Division. He narrated that he entered the tricycle at Stadium Bus Stop, heading towards Ojuelegba underbridge. Unbeknownst to him, the two other passengers inside the vehicle were accomplices of the driver.

Shortly after the journey began, the driver stopped and asked everyone to help lift the tricycle, claiming he needed to check a tire. The journalist obliged, while the other two passengers hesitated. Once back inside, the driver quickly demanded payment. While driving, he then started fiddling with the door window, asking the journalist to assist him. Amid the confusion, the victim’s phone slipped from his lap. Instead of heading to the agreed destination, the driver suddenly diverted to another route, stopped, and ordered him to get down. As he reached for his phone, the driver sped off with his accomplices.

Realizing he had been robbed, the journalist rushed to the Area C Police Division, where officers assured him they would work to recover his stolen phone.

Another victim recounted a similar encounter, warning that some tricyclists return passengers’ fares when they sense they’ve been exposed. He explained that their main tactic is distraction—sometimes pretending to have a mechanical issue to get unsuspecting passengers to step out.

“Once I notice any unnecessary stops in a commercial vehicle, I don’t wait. I simply walk away,” he said.

With these incidents on the rise, Lagos commuters are advised to stay vigilant while using public transportation.