On Wednesday, the Enugu State Government took decisive action against properties implicated in kidnapping activities, demolishing several buildings on the outskirts of Enugu, the state capital.

The targeted locations included an incomplete-storey building in Nkwubor Layout, Emene Nike, which featured an underground tunnel where a substantial cache of weapons was discovered.

Additionally, a large farm in Ogbeke Nike, Enugu East LGA, encompassing poultry, piggery, and plantain plantations, was also demolished.

In Nkwubor Nike, security forces uncovered 17 firearms, comprising eight AK47 rifles, seven pump-action rifles, and two shotguns. At the Ogbeke Nike farm, two more AK47 rifles were found. The authorities also destroyed various shrines, charms, and small-scale Indian hemp farms linked to the criminal operations.

These actions followed extensive investigations by security operatives into the activities of the kidnappers. The operations, which included intense gunfights with the criminals, led to the rescue of several victims.

This crackdown aligns with the Enugu State Government’s commitment under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration to combat crime.

The government had previously announced its intention to demolish properties used for criminal purposes, by Section 315 of the Criminal Code (Second Amendment) Law Cap. 30, Laws of Enugu State.

This section, which had remained inactive since its amendment in 2016, stipulates that buildings used for criminal activities can be demolished or forfeited to the state.

Uche Anya, Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), addressed the media at the Agu Ogbeke site, emphasizing that the demolitions were in strict adherence to the law.

Anya underscored the government’s resolve to eradicate criminal activities, stating that properties involved in serious crimes like kidnapping will be targeted.

He also issued a stern warning to property owners, stressing that ignorance of illegal activities on their properties will not be excused.

In his statement, Anya described the gruesome conditions at Nkwubor, noting the discovery of an underground cell concealed by a manhole, where captives were held.

The security forces found an arsenal of firearms and other illicit equipment, highlighting the severity of the criminal operations. Anya emphasized that such properties will be repurposed for the public good, possibly turning them into playgrounds, parks, or health facilities.

Anya concluded by reiterating the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards activities that deprive individuals of their freedom or cause harm, reinforcing the ongoing nature of these demolitions and the broader efforts to eliminate criminality from the state.