The Edo State Government has demolished a building allegedly linked to kidnapping activities in Obagie Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the state.

Speaking during the demolition, spokesperson for the Edo State Security Squad, Noah Idemudia, said the building was used as a hideout by suspected kidnappers and as a holding point for victims before they were moved to other locations.

He said, “According to available information, this house belongs to a suspected kidnapper, and we are here to demolish it. The suspect was arrested by the police for his alleged involvement in kidnapping.”

He said the suspect was among members of a kidnapping syndicate that had terrorised the Obagie community for years.

“The owner of the demolished building is the principal suspect and is currently in police custody. He allegedly demanded an N11 million ransom before releasing a male victim.

“After that operation, the syndicate allegedly planned to kidnap the victim’s wife but the operation failed and the suspect was arrested,” Mr Idemudia said.

He further said that many of the suspected kidnappers are not indigenous to Edo State but received support from locals.

“It is unfortunate that these kidnappers are not from Edo but they have collaborators who are indigenous; some of  our people connive with them in carrying out their criminal activities,” he said.

Mr Idemudia said that under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, Edo is no longer a safe haven for criminals.

“You are welcome to Edo if your intention is to live peacefully but those with criminal tendencies should stay away,” he said.

He urged individuals involved in criminal activities to leave the state and called on community leaders, particularly the Okaigheles, to take greater responsibility for security in their communities.

“I call on community leaders to take charge of their communities and ensure they are free of crime. The governor has consistently warned against laxity in community security and is not happy with the current situation,” he added.

Mr Idemudia also said that community leaders across the state would soon be invited to the Government House for profiling as part of efforts to bolster community-based security and monitor entrants to their communities. 

(NAN)