Security operatives in Enugu have taken down a total of 27 suspected kidnappers, including individuals associated with the Auto Pilot group, also known as Unknown Gunmen. This breakaway faction of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), supporting the fugitive Simon Ekpa based in Finland, had been causing terror in Enugu and its surroundings. These operations were disclosed by a police detective who shared that the confrontations occurred at different spots across the state over the past two weeks.
Local residents are now urging the governor to utilize the state’s criminal code to demolish properties used by kidnappers and other criminals as hideouts. They believe that such actions would act as a deterrent to potential criminals.
During an operation at Ugwuogo Nike-Opi Road, Police Superintendent SP Onochie Ezeh revealed that a joint security mission led to the killing of a 7-member gang of kidnappers at Ogbeke Nike, where they had been using a large poultry farm to conceal their victims. He mentioned that this successful operation was part of ongoing efforts to eliminate criminals operating within the state, including kidnappers and unknown gunmen coming from neighboring areas.
SP Ezeh further shared that the security task force established by Governor Peter Mbah in Enugu had achieved significant milestones in policing the state and eradicating criminal elements. The tactical squad’s purpose is to eliminate threats and ensure peace for all citizens and residents in the region.
Residents are now calling on Governor Mbah to not only capture kidnappers but to exercise his authority as the chief security officer by demolishing properties used as shelters by criminals. The law permits the state government to take down buildings involved in kidnapping activities, including hotels and private establishments.
In response to these pleas, Chief Ani Iheanacho, a senior lawyer, highlighted the existing criminal law in the state amended in 2016, allowing the governor to destroy structures utilized for kidnappings. He stressed the importance of deterring criminals and those facilitating their access to such premises for the overall benefit of justice and society.
Dr. Kate Pamela, a survivor of a kidnapping incident, expressed her trauma from the experiences faced at the hands of the kidnappers. She emphasized the need for justice by demanding the closure of the poultry farm where she was held captive, illustrating the devastating impact these criminal activities have on victims and society at large.