Residents of Ubiaja in Esan South East Local Government Area have applauded the demolition of a building allegedly used as a hideout for kidnapping and drug-related activities by the Edo State Special Security Squad.

The property, reportedly linked to suspected kidnap kingpin Jerry Okoyomo, was pulled down amid jubilation from residents who described the action as a major breakthrough in the fight against insecurity in the area.

Chairman of the Special Security Squad, Noah Paddy Idemudia, said the building was uncovered during investigations into a recent kidnapping incident in Irrua which led to the arrest of nine suspects.

“This house was identified during investigations into the recent kidnapping incident in Irrua which led to the arrest of nine suspected kidnappers,” he said.

Idemudia stated that preliminary investigations revealed the property served as a base for kidnapping operations and illegal drug activities. He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Monday Okpebholo to tackling criminality across the state.

“The Edo State Government under Governor Monday Okpebholo will not relent in fishing out criminals and destroying all structures linked to criminal activities across the state,” he said.

He also urged landlords to conduct proper background checks on prospective tenants to prevent criminals from using rented properties as operational bases.

Residents who witnessed the demolition expressed relief, saying the building had long been associated with suspicious activities and fear within the community.

“We are very happy today. This house has been a hideout for criminals for a long time and people have been living in fear,” a resident said.

Another resident commended the state government for what he described as decisive action against insecurity.

At the Ubiaja Police Station, security operatives also paraded suspects arrested in connection with the case.

One of the suspects, Musa Mohammadu, claimed he was brought from northern Nigeria under the guise of securing a cattle-rearing job but later became suspicious after discovering there was no cattle business.

The prime suspect, Jerry Okoyomo, however denied involvement in kidnapping, insisting he was only involved in the sale of hard drugs.

A victim allegedly kidnapped by the gang also recounted her ordeal, alleging that one of the suspects moved freely within the community while supervising operations and monitoring victims held in captivity.

The demolition marks another step in the ongoing crackdown on criminal activities by the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo aimed at improving security across Edo State.