The Enugu State Government has taken decisive action against kidnapping by demolishing another property associated with such criminal activities. This latest operation, carried out over the weekend, aims to send a clear message to landlords that the government will rigorously enforce laws regarding properties linked to crime.
During the demolition, Hon. Uche Anya, Executive Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, emphasized that the law empowers the government to raze any building used for illegal activities. He cited Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, which states that structures used for crime may be demolished or forfeited to the state.
The targeted property, located in Amaebo Owelli Autonomous Community in Awgu Local Government Area, was reportedly a site for holding kidnapping victims. Anya revealed that a disturbing video recorded in May 2024 featured a male victim being threatened with several AK-47 rifles while held captive in the same building. Security forces were able to rescue the victim and apprehend many of the criminals involved.
“This action is part of our ongoing fight against all forms of crime in Enugu State,” Anya stated. He detailed a case from May 25, 2024, where a man was abducted, stripped, and coerced into contacting his family for ransom. Fortunately, with the commitment of Governor Mbah and the state’s advanced security measures, law enforcement was able to respond swiftly, leading to arrests and the recovery of various firearms.
The Executive Chairman explained that the leader of this kidnapping gang had previously evaded capture but was eventually tracked down through collaborative efforts between state and federal security agencies.
Anya reiterated that the government would not consider converting such properties for public use, stating that demolitions serve as a deterrent against criminal activities. “We do not want any reminders of the severe criminality that occurred in these places,” he noted, highlighting the government’s stance against profiting from criminal acts.
He issued a stern warning to landlords, stating, “We will hold you responsible for any crime occurring on your property. If it escalates to violent crime, including kidnapping or armed robbery, we will demolish the structure according to the law.” He added that the government plans to repurpose the demolished site for community benefit, potentially establishing a clinic.
This recent demolition aligns with the Mbah Administration’s ongoing campaign to eliminate properties linked to crime, reinforcing its zero-tolerance policy toward criminal activities in Enugu State. Earlier in August, similar actions were taken against properties associated with kidnappers in Ogbeke Nike and Nkwubor Nike, where authorities also recovered significant caches of weapons.
