Nigeria: Enugu gov’t demolishes kidnapping den in Nkanu West

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

The Enugu State Government has razed a property used as a hideout for kidnappers in Umueze Awkunanaw, Nkanu West Local Government Area. The demolition, carried out on October 23 2025, follows the rescue of a kidnap victim and the recovery of weapons, ammunition and the victim’s vehicle from the bungalow. 

The demolition is part of Governor Peter Mbah’s crackdown on properties used for criminal activities, as outlined in the state’s Criminal Code (Second Amendment.)

Praised the governor’s “political will” and warned property owners to monitor tenants, or face demolition. Described the suspect as a known criminal who had returned from prison and resumed illegal activities. 

The action is backed by Section 315 of the Enugu State Criminal Code, which mandates demolition of buildings used for kidnapping. The government had previously warned property owners in 2025 to ensure tenants were not involved in crime. 

This demolition signals the Enugu government’s commitment to tackling insecurity through targeted property seizures, with officials vowing to pursue all hideouts across the state.