The Edo state government has demolished illegal structures allegedly used as hideouts by kidnappers along the Okpella–Okene expressway.
The exercise, carried out on December 20, targeted shanties located around the Obu/Oguda/Bua Cement axis.
In a statement by Ebojele Patrick, chief press secretary to Monday Okpebholo, the state governor, security agencies had identified through intelligence reports that the hideouts were serving as operational bases for criminal activities.
According to the government, findings from investigations showed that the structures were used to hold abducted victims before ransom demands were made and payments collected.
The axis has for years been considered a security flashpoint, with residents and motorists describing it as a haven for criminals.
Patrick noted that previous efforts to dislodge the suspected kidnappers were unsuccessful, making the area a major concern for Okpebholo’s administration.
He said that at about 9:30 am on Saturday, the Edo State Development and Building Control Agency (ESDBCA) moved in and demolished the illegal structures.
The operation was supervised by Williams Ovenseri, a town planning officer with the agency.
Security operatives involved in the exercise said the suspects attempted to resist the operation by blocking the Okpella–Okene expressway at the Obu/Oguda/Bua Cement axis and allegedly using human shields.
Despite the resistance, the operation was successfully carried out.
The demolition was led by Benjamin Abang, deputy commissioner of police in charge of operations, Edo state command, who coordinated a joint team of police officers and personnel of the Nigerian Army.
No casualties were recorded during the exercise.
Following the demolition, the government said the area has become relatively calm, with security agencies maintaining surveillance to prevent a return of criminal activities.
The state government said the operation underscores its commitment to tackling kidnapping and other forms of criminality, and ensuring the safety of lives and property in the Edo.
