Mathew Amaechi
In a significant victory against kidnapping, the recently launched Operation Udo Ga Chi Security Outfit in Anambra State has successfully dismantled a kidnappers’ den, arrested scores of suspects, and rescued victims in Isiagu Community, Awka South Local Government Area.
The security operatives, acting on tips from the public, discovered that two buildings in the area were being used as hideouts for kidnappers. Shockingly, investigations revealed that the landlords of these buildings were aware of the illicit activities but failed to report them to the authorities.
Consequently, the buildings were destroyed, and the properties forfeited to the state government, in line with Anambra State laws.
Special Adviser to Gov. Charles Soludo on Community Security, Prince Kenneth Emeakayi, confirmed that the security outfit’s actions were lawful and necessary to combat insecurity in the state.
“We are here at Isiagu Community in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State where we discovered that these two buildings have been hideouts for kidnappers, and this is where they keep their victims while waiting for ransoms to be paid.”
“From investigations and findings, some of the kidnap victims that regained their freedom confirmed that even the landlords of the two buildings are aware of what has been going on in their buildings, but they refused to report to the police or any security agency.”
“And in line with the laws of Anambra State, any building found to be harboring kidnappers would be forfeited by the landlord, and the building would ultimately be destroyed, and the land becomes the property of the Anambra State Government.”
Emeakayi advised landlords to be vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities. While the exact number of suspects arrested and the whereabouts of the affected landlords remain undisclosed, Emeakayi assured that the outfit is monitoring the situation closely and will release more information after investigations are concluded.
The success of Operation Udo Ga Chi Security Outfit marks a significant milestone in Anambra State’s fight against kidnapping and insecurity
