Adaptation, Rationality, and Manipulation: Insight Into Kidnappers’ Modus Operandi in the South Eastern States of Nigeria

Abstract

Kidnappers’ modus operandi (MO) is defined as consisting of a summary of strategies used by kidnappers both to get close to the victims and then do the crime. Utilizing a naturalistic methodological approach, we interviewed 86 kidnappers in two prisons. Insight into the MO of systematic kidnapping is gained, discussed, and is briefly compared with earlier work on the systematic MO of armed robbers, both similar but somehow distinct high-profile and common crimes in contemporary Nigeria. Common types of kidnappers’ MO are presented, showing their point of convergence with that of armed robbery. These are “trick-mild,” “surprise-violence,” “blitz-terror,” “bold-con-confidence,” or a combination of any two of these MOs, and they are predicated on rational choice, convenience, and social learning theories. It is suggested that a number of considerations, adaptations, and manipulation-intrigues intertwines at some point in time and place to influence decision-making process regarding the choice of an MO. Understanding the MOs of kidnappers will assist both potential victims and law enforcement officers, relationship with the offenders, and increase public safety.