By Rosemary Okoduwa
The Edo State Government has intensified its crackdown on kidnapping and other violent crimes with the arrest of an alleged notorious kidnapping kingpin, Christian Okoduwa, who is believed to be linked to a network of abductions that have terrorized Uromi and surrounding communities.
The suspect is currently in police custody in Benin City, while his residence located on Thursday Street, off Amedokhian Road in Uromi, has been demolished following investigations and verified intelligence linking the property to criminal activities.
The Secretary of the Edo State Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists, Barrister John Izegaegbe, disclosed that investigations revealed that Okoduwa allegedly coordinated kidnapping operations by recruiting and bringing suspected criminal elements from neighbouring states and communities into Uromi.
According to Izegaegbe, several suspects arrested in connection with kidnapping incidents across Uromi and its environs reportedly identified Okoduwa as a key figure in the criminal network, leading security agencies to intensify investigations into his activities.
“We are in Uromi, and this building behind me, which has been demolished, belongs to one Christian Okoduwa, who has been linked severally to a kidnapping chain operating within the area. Investigations indicate that he imported criminal elements into Uromi from neighbouring states and communities to carry out kidnapping activities,” Izegaegbe stated.
He further alleged that the suspect was involved in some of the most serious kidnapping incidents recorded in the locality and described his arrest as a major breakthrough in the state’s ongoing fight against insecurity.
The security chief explained that the demolition of the building was carried out in accordance with the state’s policy against the use of properties for criminal enterprises.
“This demolition is the result of kidnapping activities. Any building used for such criminal operations must be brought down. Acting on verified intelligence and the outcome of investigations, we received a directive to demolish the property, and that is exactly what has been done,” he said.
Izegaegbe reaffirmed the determination of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration to rid Edo State of criminal elements, warning that anyone found aiding, abetting, or participating in kidnapping and cult-related activities would face the full weight of the law.
The latest development underscores the unwavering commitment of the Edo State Government to restoring peace and security across all parts of the state and ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven within its borders.
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