THE Enugu State Government has demolished another building allegedly used for kidnapping activities, reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance against crime.
According to officials, the demolition aligns with state laws and the government’s ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal hideouts.
The property, a bungalow located in Umueze Awkunanaw, Nkanu West Local Government Area, was identified as a den used by a suspected kidnap kingpin, Igwenagu Ogbodo, and his gang.
Security operatives recently rescued a kidnapped victim from the building before the demolition.
During the operation, the prime suspect and some of his accomplices reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds after a confrontation with security personnel.
Speaking at the site, Nkanu West Council Chairman, John Ogbodo, lauded Governor Peter Mbah for his firm approach to tackling insecurity.
“The prime suspect and his gang kidnapped a victim and brought him here. He was rescued, and his vehicle, along with arms and ammunition, was recovered,” Ogbodo stated.
He added that the demolition was consistent with the governor’s commitment to enforcing the state’s anti-crime policy.
“Governor Mbah made it clear that any house used to harbour criminals or aid criminality will be demolished. This is a practical demonstration of that promise,” he said.
Ogbodo noted that this was not the first such demolition under the current administration, adding that similar actions had been taken in other parts of the state.
“This is the first in Nkanu West, and I believe it will serve as a warning to others engaged in criminal activities,” he remarked.
The council boss urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour in their communities.
“Property owners must be careful about who they rent to. Any house linked to kidnapping or other crimes will face demolition,” he warned.
He further assured that the state government would continue pursuing the prime suspect and his gang members.
“They may be on the run now, but there is no hiding place for criminals in Enugu State,” he declared.
Residents of Umueze Awkunanaw supported the demolition, describing the suspect as a notorious troublemaker.
A community elder, Ikechukwu Amos, confirmed that Ogbodo was well-known for his criminal behaviour.
“We have been warning him, but he refused to change. He just came out of prison recently and went back to his old ways,” Amos said.
Another resident, Edeh Kingsley, also condemned the suspect, saying, “He never wanted to work; he preferred living off crime and drinking. Anyone who chooses kidnapping as a career should face the consequences.”
The councillor representing the area, Uchenna Jideofor, also commended the demolition, describing it as a necessary step toward lasting peace.
“This suspect has long been a menace. Even in my first tenure, I ensured he was remanded, but he was later released. Now the community is paying the price for tolerating such behaviour,” he said.
Jideofor called on residents to cooperate with security agencies, warning that shielding criminals would only endanger their communities.
“Today’s demolition should serve as a lesson to those who think they can outsmart the law,” he said.