The Enugu State Government has taken a bold step in the fight against kidnapping by demolishing a mansion used as a hideout for kidnappers in Amaebo Owelli Autonomous Community, Awgu Local Government Area. This action is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to crack down on properties linked to criminal activities .
The demolished property was notorious for being a den where victims were tortured and ransomed. In fact, a kidnapping incident in May 2024, where a male victim was filmed with AK-47 rifles pointed at his head, occurred within the same building. Fortunately, security agencies were able to track down the property, rescue the victim, arrest most of the kidnappers, and recover a cache of arms and ammunition .
Hon. Uche Anya, Executive Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, emphasized that the demolition is part of the government’s strategy to wipe out any reminders of criminality in the state. This move sends a strong message to those involved in such activities .
This isn’t the first time the government has taken such action. Similar demolitions were carried out in August on properties linked to kidnapping in Ogbeke Nike and Nkwubor Nike, both in Enugu East LGA . As the fight against criminality continues, more demolitions are expected.