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The Edo State Government has demolished a building allegedly owned by a suspected kidnap kingpin in Obagie-N’Evbuosa Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, as part of its campaign against kidnapping and violent crime.
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Ebojele, said the demolition was carried out by the governor’s Principal Security Officer in collaboration with security agencies and the Edo State Security Squad.
The squad’s spokesperson, Noah Idemudia, alleged that the building was used to keep kidnapped victims before they were moved to other locations.
He identified the property as belonging to Solomon Johnson, whom he described as the alleged leader of a kidnapping syndicate. According to him, the suspect, who is from Delta State, is currently in police custody.
Idemudia alleged that Johnson’s gang had terrorised residents of Obagie-N’Evbuosa and recently demanded an ₦11 million ransom for the release of a kidnapped victim.
He added that the gang allegedly planned to abduct the victim’s wife before security operatives arrested the suspect.
“We are here to demolish this building identified as a den where kidnappers keep their victims. It served as a hideout before they were moved elsewhere.
“Edo State is no longer a safe haven for criminals. Anyone who wishes to live peacefully is welcome, but those with criminal intentions should leave the state,” Idemudia said.
He also disclosed that the state government would soon meet with Okaigheles (community heads) to discuss resident profiling and community security.
According to him, community leaders would be expected to know those moving into their communities and work closely with security agencies to prevent crime.
During interrogation, Johnson, who identified himself as a bricklayer from Delta State, admitted working for an alleged gang leader identified simply as Efe.
He claimed his role was to sell stolen items, including phones, laptops and other valuables allegedly taken from kidnapping victims.
“I work for a man called Efe, who is involved in robbery and kidnapping. He brings phones, laptops and other valuables for me to sell around Ring Road,” he said.
Johnson added that he earned commissions from the sales, sometimes receiving as much as ₦50,000 from a single transaction.
Police said investigations into the case are ongoing.
