The Edo State Government has demolished a building allegedly linked to kidnapping and illicit drug activities in Ubiaja, Esan South-East Local Government Area of the state.

The demolition, carried out by the Edo State Special Security Squad, attracted a large crowd of residents who applauded the action and described it as a major relief for the community.

The building was allegedly connected to a suspected kidnap kingpin, Jerry Okoyomo, and was said to have served as a hideout for criminal operations within the area.

Chairman of the Special Security Squad, Noah Paddy Idemudia, who supervised the exercise, disclosed that the property was uncovered during investigations into a recent kidnapping incident in Irrua, which led to the arrest of nine suspected kidnappers.

According to him, preliminary investigations revealed that the building was being used as a base for kidnapping and illegal drug-related activities.

“This house was identified during investigations into the recent kidnapping incident in Irrua, which led to the arrest of nine suspected kidnappers,” Idemudia said.

Idemudia warned individuals involved in criminal activities to desist or face the full weight of the law, noting that the government would continue to intensify its crackdown on criminal hideouts across the state.

He also advised landlords and property owners to properly screen and profile prospective tenants before renting out their properties.

Residents of the area who witnessed the demolition expressed joy and relief, saying the building had long been associated with suspicious movements and criminal activities.

One of the residents said, “We are very happy today. This house has been a hideout for criminals for a long time and people have been living in fear.”

Another resident commended Governor Okpebholo for taking what he described as a bold step against insecurity in the community.

Earlier at the Ubiaja Police Station, security operatives paraded suspects arrested in connection with the case.

One of the suspects, Musa Mohammadu, who spoke through an interpreter, claimed he was brought from northern Nigeria under the guise of securing a cattle-rearing job.

“I was brought here from the North to rear cattle, but when I got here, I discovered there was no cattle work.

“I became uncomfortable because of the suspicious activities going on around the place and I told them I wanted to return before the police arrested us,” he said.

However, Jerry Okoyomo denied involvement in kidnapping, insisting that he was only involved in the sale of hard drugs. (Nigerian Tribune)

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