Edo State Government Demolishes Kidnappers’ House
Tracy Ohovwore, Benin city
The government of Edo state have begun the demolition of houses belonging to alleged abductors Utubor Uchenna and Felix Ebama where they hide their victims.
The two abductors earlier revealed how they collected the sum of N10 million ransom from two of their victims before they were arrested.
While speaking to journalists, the suspects, who belonged to a gang of seven, admitted to their atrocities and identified the property as their hideout before the demolition began.
Confessing to their crimes, the kidnappers admitted that they have been involved in high-profile kidnappings within the Edo Central area of the state.
One of the suspects, Uchenna, said, “The last operation we did fetched us N10m ransom. We abducted a man who drove flashy cars, and he was with a lady, and they were both kidnapped.
“We are here to identify the house where we kept our victims, and we have been involved in several kidnapping operations.”
Meanwhile, in a bid to ensure the safety of the citizens and reduce Criminal activities, the Edo state government began the demolition of houses linked to kidnappers in Illeh, Esan west LGA and Uromi, Esan north east LGA of the state.
Speaking, the special adviser to the governor on security, Akhere Paul, mentioned that theyear the exercise was under the law and that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo will not tolerate any establishment or house used for criminal activities.
He said, “This house has been used for criminal activities. They keep kidnapped victims here, and a raid by men of the Nigeria Police Force recovered some dangerous weapons as well.
“According to the new law on kidnapping recently passed by the Edo State House of Assembly and signed by Governor Monday Okpebholo, any house found being used for kidnapping activities will be demolished.
“This will serve as a deterrent to others. You must profile a person before giving out your house to him or her for rent. Go to the police station and let them help you in profiling the new person before you give out your property.
“You must verify their identity, where they work, and who they are to avoid unfortunate incidents like this,” Akhere added.
Also, the commander, Special Task Force, SP Micheal Anetor, commended the action of demolishing kidnappers hideout as it would serve as a detriment to others and help reduce kidnapping and crime activities in the state.
He further beckoned all Edo state citizens to be alert and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or members of the Special Task Force.
