Edo Demolishes Suspected Kidnappers’ Hideout In Ubiaja In Security Crackdown

Residents of Ubiaja in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State have applauded the demolition of a building allegedly used as a hideout for kidnapping and drug-related activities by the Edo State Special Security Squad.

The building, reportedly linked to suspected kidnap kingpin, Jerry Okoyomo, was pulled down amid jubilation by residents who described the action as a major breakthrough in the fight against insecurity in the community.

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

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

Idemudia disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that the building served as an operational base for criminal activities, including kidnapping and illicit drug dealings.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo to combating criminality across the state.

“The Edo State Government under Governor Monday Okpebholo will not relent in fishing out criminals and destroying all structures linked to criminal activities across the state,” he stated.

He warned individuals involved in criminal activities to desist or be prepared to face the full weight of the law.

The security squad chairman also urged landlords and property owners to properly screen prospective tenants before leasing out their properties.

“We also advise landlords to properly profile individuals before renting out their houses. Some of these criminals hide under false identities to carry out illegal activities,” he added.

Residents who witnessed the demolition commended the state government for taking decisive action against insecurity, noting that the building had long been suspected to be a criminal hideout.

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

Another resident added: “We thank Governor Monday Okpebholo for taking this bold action. This demolition has brought relief to the community.”

Earlier, security operatives at the Ubiaja Police Station 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 employment in cattle rearing.

“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, the prime suspect, Jerry Okoyomo, denied involvement in kidnapping, insisting that he was only engaged in the sale of hard drugs.

A victim allegedly kidnapped by the gang also recounted her experience in captivity, alleging that one of the suspects moved freely within the community while occasionally visiting the hideout to supervise operations and monitor victims.

The demolition is the latest move by the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo aimed at tackling criminal activities and restoring public confidence in the security of lives and property across Edo State.