The Edo State Government has demolished a building reportedly linked to a suspected kidnapping kingpin in Obagie-N’Evbuosa Community, located in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, as part of intensified efforts to curb kidnapping and violent crimes in the state.
The operation, carried out on Thursday, was led by the Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo, in collaboration with security agencies and the Edo State Security Squad.
According to the squad’s spokesperson, Noah Idemudia, the demolished structure had allegedly been used as a hideout where kidnapped victims were held before being moved to other locations.
He disclosed that the property belonged to Solomon Johnson, an alleged leader of a kidnapping syndicate, who is currently in police custody.
Idemudia revealed that the suspect and his gang had reportedly terrorised residents in the area and recently demanded a ransom of N11 million for a victim’s release. He added that the group had also planned to abduct the victim’s wife before security operatives apprehended Johnson.
Describing the demolition as a strong warning to criminal elements, Idemudia emphasized that Edo State would no longer serve as a safe haven for perpetrators of crime.
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He further noted concerns about collaboration between non-indigenous criminal elements and local accomplices, stressing the need for community vigilance.
As part of preventive measures, the state government plans to engage Okaigheles (community heads) across Edo to strengthen resident profiling and improve grassroots security.
Community leaders are expected to monitor movements within their domains and work closely with authorities to prevent criminal activities.
Meanwhile, the suspect, who identified himself as a bricklayer from Delta State, reportedly admitted during interrogation that he worked under a gang leader known as “Efe.”
He confessed that his role involved selling stolen items, including phones and laptops, allegedly taken from kidnapping victims, earning commissions from the proceeds.
Police investigations into the case are ongoing.
The Edo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, warning that individuals involved in criminal activities will face strict consequences.
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