Enugu dismantles kidnappers’ den

The Enugu State Government has demolished a notorious kidnappers’ den located in Nike, within the Enugu East Local Government Area, as part of its ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping.

The twin semi-detached bungalows in Nokpa, near Alulu, were reportedly used repeatedly to hold kidnap victims while awaiting ransom payments.

This action was taken in accordance with Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State.

Briefing newsmen after the operation on Friday, Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, Uche Anya, reiterated Governor Peter Mbah’s determination to eradicating kidnapping and violent crime from the state, stating, “This is an open warfare and will not stop until we wipe out the criminal elements.”

Anya recounted a recent incident: “On 27th of September, at about 7 pm, this gang of hardened criminals abducted one Chibuoke Charles and Mr. Emma Okeke around the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences (formerly Federal School of Dental Technology and Therapy), Trans Ekulu, Enugu, and took them to this den. They were able to get ransom for one and hoped to get a ransom of N40m from the other victim.

He explained that the kidnappers attempted to escape to their stronghold in Imo State, unaware that security agencies were tracking them.

“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,” he said.

He added, “Members of their gang guarding the kidnap victim opened fire on the rescue team, but were equally overpowered and neutralised in the process of rescuing the victim. This happened on the 29th of September.

“Three automatic rifles in addition to other dangerous weapons, fetish objects, and hard drugs were recovered from them. So, even their charms failed them.

“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 further emphasised that the government will not hesitate to demolish any property linked to kidnapping or armed robbery.

“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, particularly Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State,” he added.

Anya also urged landlords to perform due diligence when selecting tenants and to be vigilant regarding activities on their properties.

“If they see something, they should say something immediately because the government will not entertain any excuses,” Anya stated.