Abia Demolishes Kidnappers’ Hideout, Warns Landlords Against Criminals
The Abia State Government on Tuesday, intensified its crackdown on criminal activities by demolishing a building in Osisioma Local Government Area that was being used as a hideout by kidnappers.
This action follows a recent police operation in which six suspected kidnappers were neutralized, four victims rescued, and weapons recovered, including two AK-47 rifles, six magazines, and 32 rounds of live ammunition.
Speaking on the development, Governor Alex Otti reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for criminal enclaves and ordered the complete demolition of the Osokwa building, vowing to prosecute its owner.
“Any landlord who allows criminals to use their property is as guilty as the criminals themselves,” Otti declared.
The state’s Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, while addressing journalists in Umuahia, emphasized the need for landlords to conduct proper background checks before leasing their properties. He lamented that many property owners prioritize rent collection over verifying the identities and activities of their tenants.
“The state government will not hesitate to demolish any house used for kidnapping,” Kanu warned, urging residents to remain vigilant, monitor their surroundings, and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
He also called on landlords to maintain proper records of their tenants and ensure their buildings are not being used for criminal activities.
Governor Otti further directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Nwachukwu to collaborate with the traditional ruler of the area to ensure communities stay alert to suspicious individuals in their midst.
Abia Demolishes Kidnappers’ Hideout, Warns Landlords Against Criminals is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
