Two bungalows linked to a kidnap suspect Mr. Emeka Ezekude have been demolished by the Anambra State Government at Umuihepune, Umuatu Village, Ihiala Local Government Area. Governor Peter Obi who led the demolition exercise said the war against kidnapping and other crimes in the state must be won.

News Express had yesterday afternoon reported the arrest of a king of kidnappers in Anambra, whose identity could not be immediately ascertained. His identity was later unmasked as Mr. Ezekude. We also reported the house of the arrested king of kidnappers would be demolished today in keeping with the promise of Governor Obi, whose administration has zero tolerance for kidnapping.

After the arrest of Mr. Ezekude, the police had during a search on his premises in Ihiala recovered arms and ammunition hidden underground in plastic containers. Among the items recovered were one rocket grenade, three grenade propellers, two AK47 riffles, zero six riffles, 27 AK 47 magazines, 170 rounds of live ammunition and nine chains used in restraining kidnap victims.

Governor Obi said that the demolition was in line with the state government policy that any property linked to a kidnapper will be acquired by the government and demolished.

He made clear that government will not allow anybody to benefit from proceeds of kidnap and other forms of crime and disclosed that government.

The governor assured that government was already winning the battle as the wave of kidnap across the state has drastically reduced. He thanked the police and other security agents for their sustained efforts to rid the state of criminals and hoodlums.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, Mr. Ayole Abeh said Mr. Ezekude was a member of the kidnap gang led by Mr. Olisa Ifedike, alias Ofeakwu, who was arrested last month and whose houses have equally been demolished by the State Government. Mr. Abeh explained that the suspect was arrested through the statements by Mr. Ifedike alias Ofeakwu.

Some community people who spoke with News Express disclosed that Ezekude has been masquerading as a sand and stone supplier. They commended Governor Obi for his determination to eradicate crime in the State and assured him of total support.

The two demolished buildings consisted of nine rooms and parlour and four rooms and parlour respectively.

*Photo shows Governor Obi (right) directing affairs during the demolition of the kidnapper's houses.

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