Enugu government demolishes mansion used by kidnappers to hold their victims

The Enugu State Government has demolished yet another property connected to kidnapping activities.

The action, which took place in Amaebo Owelli Autonomous Community, Awgu Local Government Area, is part of the government’s ongoing crackdown on properties linked to criminal activities. The mansion was reportedly used as a hideout for kidnappers to hold their victims.

According to Hon. Uche Anya, Executive Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, the property in question had been a den for kidnappers, where victims were tortured and ransomed. Notably, a kidnapping incident from May 2024, where a male victim was filmed with AK-47 rifles pointed at his head, occurred within the same building. Following the incident, 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.

“What you see here today is the continuation of the war of the Enugu State Government against all manner of criminality. Today, we are here to take down a kidnappers’ den,” Anya said while addressing journalists at the site. He stressed that the demolition is part of the government’s strategy to wipe out any reminders of criminality in the state, sending a strong message to those involved in such activities.

In line with Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State, which mandates the demolition of any building used for kidnapping, violent crime, or armed robbery, the property has been forfeited and destroyed.

Anya also warned landlords to be vigilant and take responsibility for activities occurring on their properties. “Every landlord, once you put up a house in Enugu, we hold you responsible for any criminality that happens in your property,” he said, noting that the government will not accept ignorance as an excuse.

Similar demolitions were carried out in August on properties linked to kidnapping in Ogbeke Nike and Nkwubor Nike, both in Enugu East LGA, where security forces recovered large amounts of arms and ammunition.

The government reiterated its commitment to security and ensuring the safety of Enugu’s citizens. As the fight against criminality continues, more demolitions are expected.