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Description
Introduction: In Ethiopia's Amhara region, kidnapping, abduction, and extortion have become serious public security issues affecting individuals, families, and communities. This study explored community perceptions, lived experiences, and local responses to these crimes to identify pathways for effective prevention and community-led safety strategies.
Methods: Guided by Interpretive Description (ID), a qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Purposively selected officials and community members participated in twenty in-depth key informant interviews. Inductive coding was used to thematically analyze the data and extract key insights.
Results: Seven main themes emerged: economic disruption, psychological and social effects, political aspects, inadequate law enforcement, community coping mechanisms, fear and insecurity, and prevention suggestions. Participants described widespread trauma, financial strains, institutional mistrust, and community-driven protective measures, highlighting the role of local engagement in safety.
Conclusion: Beyond individual harm, these crimes threaten justice, governance, and community well-being. Addressing them requires strengthened law enforcement, political neutrality, public education, and support for community-based safety systems. Strengthening local ownership and engagement is critical for sustainable prevention and crisis response.
