● Ferdy Agu
n a decisive move to curb criminal activities in Enugu, the state government has demolished a mansion allegedly used as a hideout by kidnappers in Amaebo Owelli Autonomous Community, Awgu Local Government Area. The action was carried out under Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State, which mandates the demolition or forfeiture of properties used for criminal purposes.
At the site of the demolition, Hon. Uche Anya, the Executive Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), spoke to reporters, detailing the events that led to the government’s action. “This property was used as a base for kidnappers who held a victim hostage here in May 2024. The video of the victim, stripped to his red boxers with AK-47 rifles pointed at him, was recorded right here. Fortunately, with the help of our advanced security systems and the commitment of Governor Peter Mbah, the victim was rescued, and most of the kidnappers were apprehended,” Anya said.
Anya further elaborated on the operation that led to the arrest of the gang members, stating that the kingpin initially escaped to Ebonyi State before fleeing to Lagos, where he was eventually captured. “We tracked the gang leader from Ebonyi to Lagos with the help of security operatives. Alongside this arrest, we recovered several AK-47 rifles, semi-automatic weapons, and other prohibited arms and ammunition from the scene,” he added.
The kidnappers’ den
In response to critics who suggested converting the property for public use, Anya insisted that the demolition was necessary as a deterrent. “Some people ask why we don’t repurpose these properties, but we believe that removing them entirely sends a stronger message. We do not want any reminders of the horrors committed here. The state has no interest in benefiting from the proceeds of crime,” Anya remarked.
He also issued a stern warning to property owners, reminding them of their responsibility. “Every landlord in Enugu should be aware that ignorance will not be accepted as an excuse. Whether you are abroad or not, once criminal activities like kidnapping or armed robbery are linked to your property, we will bring it down. The law is clear on this, and we will enforce it strictly,” he emphasized.
Speaking on behalf of the local community, Chief Emmanuel Nwude, a traditional leader in Amaebo Owelli, expressed his gratitude to the state government for its swift action. “We are deeply relieved by the government’s intervention. This mansion was a symbol of fear for our people, but with its demolition, we can begin to feel secure again. Governor Mbah’s administration has shown that it will not tolerate any form of criminality,” Nwude said.
The Enugu State Government has been on a campaign to demolish properties linked to violent crimes, a move designed to serve as a warning to criminals. In August, similar demolitions were carried out at Ogbeke Nike and Nkwubor Nike in Enugu East Local Government Area, where properties connected to kidnapping activities were also brought down.
Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, a security analyst, commended the government’s approach, stating, “The destruction of properties associated with violent crimes is an effective deterrent. It shows that Enugu is no safe haven for criminals, and it reinforces the state’s commitment to maintaining law and order.”
The house reduced to rubble
Anya concluded by noting that the state government has officially taken over the property, with plans to construct a public facility, such as a clinic, to benefit the local community. GMTNewsng
