Our recent victim was targeted due to the type of luxury vehicle he drove, and he was kidnapped together with a certain woman
At Illeh, located in the Esan West Local Government Area, and Uromi, in the Esan North East Local Government Area, the Edo State Government has razed residences that are believed to be associated with kidnappers.
In compliance with the law of the state, the demolition exercise was carried out, according to Mr. Akhere Paul, who serves as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security.
Paul emphasised that the administration of Senator Monday Okpebholo would not tolerate any house or establishment that was used as a hideout for criminal activities.
He also called on landlords to ensure that proper profiling of their tenants was done before subletting their properties.
This was done in order to convey the commitment of the State Government to protecting the lives and property of its citizens.
“This house has been used for criminal activities. They keep kidnapped victims here, and a raid by men of the Nigeria Police Force recovered some dangerous weapons as well.
“According to the new law on kidnapping recently passed by the Edo State House of Assembly and signed by Governor Monday Okpebholo, any house found being used for kidnapping activities will be demolished.
“This will serve as a deterrent to others. You must profile a person before giving out your house to him or her for rent.
“Go to the police station and let them help you in profiling the new person before you give out your property. You must verify their identity, where they work, and who they are to avoid unfortunate incidence as this.
This exercise, which is in conformity with the law, will serve as a deterrence to others and will help checkmate abduction and other criminal acts in the state, according to SP Michael Anetor, who is the Commander of the Special Task Force.
It was emphasised that “a safer and secured Edo is the duty of all,” and he urged all inhabitants of Edo to contribute in the battle against abduction by keeping a watchful eye on their immediate surroundings.
And also report any suspicious actions to the nearest police station or to members of the Special Task Force.
In an interview with members of the press, the suspects, who claimed to be members of a group consisting of seven individuals, stated that the properties had served as their hiding place prior to the demolition.
It was pointed out by the leader of the gang that their most recent victim was targeted due to the type of luxury vehicle he drove, and that he was taken captive together with a certain woman.