Enugu, Nigeria – The Enugu State Government on Friday demolished twin semi-detached bungalows that had been allegedly used as a hideout by kidnappers.
The demolition, carried out in accordance with Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State, was part of ongoing efforts to tackle violent crime and ensure the safety of residents.
The buildings, located at Nokpa near Alulu, Nike in Enugu East Local Government Area, reportedly housed several kidnap victims awaiting ransom payments.
Speaking to journalists during the demolition, Uche Anya, Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, emphasized Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to eradicating kidnapping and criminality in the state.
“This is an open war against criminal elements. We will not rest until every trace of kidnappers and their hideouts is eradicated,” Anya declared.
He detailed a recent kidnapping incident, stating:
“On September 27, 2024, two individuals, Chibuoke Charles and Emma Okeke, were abducted near the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Trans Ekulu, Enugu. One ransom was paid, but the kidnappers demanded ₦40 million for the second victim.”
The state government credited its advanced security network for the eventual rescue operation. Anya explained that security agents, after tracking the gang to their hideout in Imo State, apprehended them and discovered their Enugu base.
“On September 29, during the rescue, gang members guarding the victim opened fire on the security team but were overpowered. The victim was safely rescued, and the criminals neutralized,” Anya revealed. He added that three automatic rifles, hard drugs, fetish items, and other weapons were recovered from the location.
In a stern warning, Anya stressed:
“Any property used for kidnapping or other criminal activities will be demolished under state law. The Mbah administration will not allow criminals to benefit from their illicit gains within Enugu.”
He urged property owners to thoroughly screen tenants to avoid legal consequences.
“Landlords must conduct due diligence and remain vigilant about the activities on their premises. If you see something, say something—there will be no room for excuses,” he concluded.
The Enugu government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state and warned criminals to either relocate or face severe consequences.
This incident underscores the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards crime, with demolition serving as both a punitive and deterrent measure against illegal activities.
