Our reporter
In a decisive move to combat kidnapping and criminal activities, the Edo State Government has commenced the demolition of buildings linked to suspected kidnappers in Uromi, Esan North East, and Illeh, Esan West Local Government Areas.
The demolition exercise, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Mr. Akhere Paul, was carried out under the legal framework recently enacted by the Edo State House of Assembly and signed into law by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Speaking at the site of the demolition, Mr. Akhere reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on criminal hideouts, warning that any property found to have been used for kidnapping or other nefarious activities would be brought down. He urged landlords to take responsibility for properly vetting their tenants to prevent their properties from being misused by criminal elements.
“This house was used to keep kidnap victims, and during a police raid, dangerous weapons were recovered. The new law stipulates that any house linked to kidnapping activities must be demolished. This will serve as a deterrent to others,” Mr. Akhere stated.
He further advised property owners to verify the identities and backgrounds of prospective tenants through security agencies before leasing their properties, warning that negligence could result in severe consequences.
The Commander of the Special Task Force, SP Michael Anetor, reaffirmed that the demolition was part of the State government’s broader strategy to dismantle criminal networks and make Edo safer for all residents. He encouraged citizens to actively support the fight against crime by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
Meanwhile, two suspected kidnappers, Utubor Uchenna and Felix Ebama, were apprehended and confessed to using the demolished properties as operational bases. The suspects, who are part of a seven-man gang, admitted to engaging in high-profile kidnappings in the Edo Central region, with their most recent victim paying a ransom of ₦10 million for release.
The Edo State Government has vowed to sustain the crackdown, with Governor Okpebholo directing security agencies to intensify efforts to rid the tate of criminal elements. Security forces have recorded significant successes in recent operations, with multiple hideouts raided and suspects arrested.
Residents have been urged to remain cooperative with law enforcement, as the government works to restore peace and security across the state.
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