Anambra Demolishes 2 Kidnappers’ Dens In The State

FROM IGNATIUS OKPARA, Awka – As part of his administration’s effort towards ridding Anambra State of criminal elements, especially kidnappers, Governor Willie Obiano, at the weekend demolished two more kidnap dens in the state.

The two buildings were demolished at Umuikwelle village Eziowelle Idemili North and Umugbom village Azigbo, Nnewi South council Areas respectively.

Speaking during the demolition exercise, Obiano said that no kidnap incident had happened successfully in the state in the past one year “because the security operatives were equipped to nip such threats in the bud.”

The Governor reiterated that men of the Operation “Kpochapu”, a special security squad would deal decisively with anyone found involving in any form of crime or criminality in the state.

He stated “in the past one week, we have donated a gunboat to the Navy to enable them patrol the River Niger and stop inflow of arms into the state.

“We also took delivery of 15 speed boats and 6 Water Ambulances to assist the Riverine communities in quick dispensation of healthcare services.

“I also wish to assure potential investors that we have machinery in place to protect their interest and ensure their safety in our state.”

The demolished 6-Bedroom bungalow at Eziowelle was used by one Obinna Okadigbo now at large and his gang‎ as a nest for their victims which include one Mr. Vincent Nwachukwu kidnapped at Ogidi in August 2013.

Mr Nwachukwu was eventually released after the payment of N3million ransom.

Another victim of the gang one Lady Maureen Onukwelu, was also kidnapped on November 26, 2013 at a new generation bank in Nnewi and relieved of N500,000.00 before regaining her freedom.

The second building a 4-room bungalow at Azigbo owned by late Mr. Simon Ikwukeme, was used as den by another gang led by one Emeka Chukwuka, Chukwuka Nkpuechina and Onuegbu Onyekachi.

They kept one Justina Ezenwafor whom they kidnapped from Ekwulobia on October 10, 2014 and released her three days later after extracting a ransom of N4million from the family.

In his remarks, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Joseph Agugoesie‎, said that the buildings were pulled down in accordance with the provisions of the law against kidnapping in Anambra State.

He added that it was part of measure to re-state the commitment of the government and the security agencies to rid the state of kidnappers.