The Edo State Government has launched a major crackdown on criminal activity by beginning the demolition of houses suspected to be used by kidnappers to hold their victims. The move comes as two alleged kidnappers, Utubor Uchenna and Felix Ebama, revealed how they collected N10 million in ransom during their final operation before being arrested.
The suspects, members of a seven-man gang, were taken to the properties where they had kept their victims, and during questioning, they admitted to their involvement in high-profile kidnappings across the Edo Central region. Uchenna and Ebama confessed that their last operation involved kidnapping a man with a luxury car, alongside a woman, for a ransom of N10 million.
Uchenna said, “We abducted a man who drove flashy cars and was with a lady. Both victims were released after paying N10 million ransom.”
As part of efforts to enhance public safety, the Edo State Government initiated the demolition of properties linked to kidnappers in Illeh, Esan West, and Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Areas. Akhere Paul, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, led the demolition teams and emphasized that the actions were in accordance with newly passed laws.
Paul stated, “Any house found to be involved in criminal activities, such as housing kidnapped victims, will be demolished. This action will serve as a strong deterrent to others. We urge landlords to properly profile their tenants before renting out properties.”
He added that the government under Governor Monday Okpebholo would not tolerate properties being used as hideouts for criminals. The law, recently signed by Governor Okpebholo, mandates the demolition of houses involved in kidnapping activities.
The Special Task Force Commander, SP Michael Anetor, supported the initiative, calling it essential in the fight against kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state. He also encouraged citizens to play a proactive role in securing the state by reporting suspicious activities to the authorities.
“This exercise will serve as a deterrent to others,” Anetor said, emphasizing that the safety of Edo State is the responsibility of all citizens.
