As part of its continued efforts to combat kidnapping and crime, the Enugu State Government has demolished a notorious kidnappers’ den in Nike,
Enugu East Local Government Area. The twin semi-detached bungalows, located in Nokpa near Alulu, Nike, had been used repeatedly to hold kidnap victims for ransom. The demolition, carried out under Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State, is part of Governor Peter Mbah’s broader plan to eradicate crime in the state.
Addressing the media after the operation on Friday, October 18, Hon. Uche Anya, Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, emphasized the government’s resolve. “This is an open warfare and will not stop until we wipe out the criminal elements,” Anya stated, reaffirming the administration’s determination to secure the state. Anya further explained the circumstances leading up to the demolition:
“On 27th of September, at about 7pm, this gang of hardened criminals abducted one Chibuoke Charles and Mr. Emma Okeke around the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Trans Ekulu, Enugu, and took them to this den. They were able to get ransom for one, and hoped to get a ransom of N40 million from the other victim.
“Their hit team disappeared to their stronghold in Imo State, not knowing that the security agencies were on their trail. Thank God for the sophisticated security infrastructure that Governor Mbah has procured for the state, and thanks to the brilliance and bravery of the police crack squad. The gang was overpowered and arrested. They took the crack team to this notorious den.”
Anya detailed how members of the gang guarding the kidnapped victim opened fire on the rescue team but were neutralized in the process. “Three automatic rifles in addition to other dangerous weapons, fetish objects, and hard drugs were recovered from them. So, even their charms failed them,” he added....Read Full Article [Click Here>]
The successful operation took place on 29th September, leading to the rescue of the victim and the seizure of the criminals’ weapons and charms. Anya issued a stern warning to other criminals operating in Enugu, urging them to leave or face severe consequences.
“This is yet another warning to all criminals in the state to relocate or meet their doom because this administration is determined to go all the way to secure the lives and property of Ndi Enugu,” he said.
Anya also emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy for properties used for criminal activities, stating, “The Governor Mbah Administration will not allow you to enjoy your proceeds of crimes in Enugu State. The government will not only hunt you down, but also demolish the property involved in line with the provisions of relevant laws of the state.”
He concluded by reminding landlords to conduct due diligence before renting out properties and to report any suspicious activities immediately. “If they see something, they should say something immediately because the government will not entertain any excuses,” Anya warned.
