22/08/2024
On Wednesday 21st August 2024, the Enugu State Government took action by demolishing structures that were being used by kidnappers to hold their victims on the outskirts of Enugu, the state capital.
Included in the demolished properties were an unfinished storey building equipped with an underground tunnel at Nkwubor Layout in Emene Nike, where a significant amount of weapons and ammunition were found, and a vast farm that housed a poultry operation, pig farm, and plantain plantation at Ogbeke Nike, both located in Enugu East Local Government Area.
In the Nkwubor Nike area, a total of 17 fi****ms were discovered, consisting of eight AK47 rifles, seven pump-action rifles, and two shotguns. Additionally, two AK47 rifles were recovered from the Ogbeke Nike farm. Furthermore, shrines, charms, and small-scale Indian h**p plantations were dismantled and destroyed during the operation.
After months of undercover investigations into the activities of the kidnappers, security forces conducted a raid on the two hideouts, leading to the shocking discoveries and the successful rescue of some victims after gun duels with the criminals.
Previously, the Enugu State Government under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, had made a commitment to combat crime and eliminate criminal activities within the state. In accordance with Section 315 of the Criminal Code (Second Amendment) Law Cap. 30, Laws of Enugu State, the government declared its intention to demolish properties utilized for kidnapping operations. This proactive measure reflects the government's firm stance against criminal elements and its dedication to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
Section 315, which had been inactive since its 2016 amendment, states, "If the building or structure is owned by the offender or by any individual who is aware or should reasonably be aware that the building or structure is being used for unlawful purposes, the building or structure shall be demolished or confiscated by the State Government." This provision emphasizes the accountability of property owners and their responsibility to ensure that their premises are not utilized for criminal activities.
During a press briefing held at the criminal hideout in Ogbeke, Nike, the Executive Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), Hon. Barr. Uche Anya, affirmed that the demolitions were carried out in adherence to the aforementioned law as mandated by the government. Anya underscored that the state remains relentless in its commitment to rooting out criminal elements and emphasized that there will be no safe haven for criminals within Enugu State.
The administration is unwavering in its resolve to eradicate all forms of criminal activities. Individuals who were victims of kidnapping, such as the woman abducted near the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, were brought to these locations.
The effort made to reach this hideout today illustrates the seriousness of the situation. This criminal activity has persisted for some time, but after today, this location will cease to exist in its current form. We are here to send a clear message and caution property owners not to claim ignorance while being abroad in South Africa, China, or Germany.
"If your property or business establishment is involved in kidnapping or any activities that cause serious harm or pose a threat, including attempted murder, we will hold you accountable and take action against both you and your property," he emphasized.
During the briefing at Nkwubor in Emene Nike, Anya informed the press, "The criminal activities at this site were particularly horrendous. As you witnessed, they constructed an underground cell and concealed it with a manhole."
Initially, one might assume that nothing unusual was occurring in that area.
However, the keen observation of the security personnel during their operations revealed suspicious activities. It was uncovered that there existed an underground space where individuals were being held captive, along with the discovery of a cache of weapons including multiple AK47 rifles and other prohibited equipment. Today, in compliance with the directives of the governor and in alignment with the laws of Enugu State, decisive action is being taken to address this situation.
The Chairman of ECTDA mentioned that the government plans to assume control of the properties and repurpose them for beneficial use. He highlighted that the demolitions are being carried out continuously, with additional structures already identified for demolition.
“All of these sites will be reclaimed by the government and transformed into spaces for the community, such as children's playgrounds, gardens, parks, or primary healthcare facilities. Those who believed they had ownership of these properties will no longer have any claim to them from this moment on.”
"Enugu State has legislation specifically targeting kidnapping, and in addition, the Criminal Code prohibits any actions that infringe upon an individual's freedom and result in fatalities. Such acts cannot be tolerated by the government," he concluded.
