Over the weekend, the Enugu State Government demolished another property tied to kidnapping activities, reinforcing its commitment to enforcing laws that mandate the destruction of properties used for criminal purposes.
The government warned landlords that it would not tolerate any excuses when it comes to compliance with the state’s laws on such matters.
Citing Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State, the government reiterated that any building or structure linked to criminal activities, especially kidnapping, must be demolished or forfeited. The law applies not only to offenders but also to property owners who knowingly or unknowingly allow their buildings to be used for illegal purposes.
Speaking at the demolition site, Executive Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, Hon. Uche Anya, disclosed that the mansion, located in Amaebo Owelli Autonomous Community in Awgu Local Government Area, was used as a hideout for kidnapping victims. He revealed that a video from May 2024 showed a male victim with AK-47 rifles pointed at his head, held captive in the same building.
Fortunately, security agencies were able to track the location, rescue the victim, and arrest most of the criminals involved. A significant number of firearms, including AK-47 rifles, semi-automatic weapons, and other types of ammunition, were recovered from the site.
“What you see here today is part of the Enugu State Government’s ongoing war against all forms of criminality,” Hon. Anya stated. “This property served as a den for kidnappers, where terrifying criminal acts took place. On May 25, 2024, kidnappers brought a man here, stripped him to his red boxers, tied him up, and threatened him with guns to demand a ransom from his family. They recorded and sent a video of the incident to his relatives.”
He added that, thanks to Governor Peter Mbah’s dedication to security and the state’s advanced security systems, authorities were able to intervene and apprehend most of the criminals. The gang’s leader initially escaped to Ebonyi and then Lagos but was eventually captured through coordinated efforts between the state government and security forces.
Hon. Anya further explained the rationale behind demolishing the property: “Some may wonder why we don’t convert these properties for public use. But we believe demolishing them serves as a stronger deterrent. We want no reminders of the crimes that took place here, nor do we want to profit from criminal activities. The Enugu State Government will not benefit from a criminal’s property.”
He issued a stern warning to property owners, stressing that the government would not accept excuses for criminal activities on their properties. “This is a message to all landlords: If criminal activities, especially violent crimes like kidnapping or armed robbery, occur on your property, the government will demolish it, in line with the law. Whether you live abroad or claim ignorance, you will be held responsible,” he emphasized.
The government has already revoked the title deed for the demolished property, with plans to potentially build a clinic or other facilities that will benefit the Owelli Court community.
The Mbah administration has maintained a firm stance against properties linked to violent crimes, having demolished similar properties in Ogbeke Nike and Nkwubor Nike in Enugu East LGA in August. Both demolitions were part of the state’s ongoing efforts to combat crime and ensure that criminals do not enjoy the proceeds of their illegal activities.