The Edo State Government has demolished a residential property located on College Road in the Aduwawa area of Benin City after it was linked to a notorious kidnapping syndicate operating within the state.
The demolition was carried out by the Edo State Task Force following the arrest of Osamede Asemota, a suspected leader of the five-man gang said to be responsible for a series of abductions in Aduwawa, Eyan, and along the Auchi Bypass axis of the state capital.
According to authorities, Asemota confessed to taking part in multiple kidnappings, including the abduction of a woman from her shop at Ramat Park, who was held in captivity for two days in a bush near Agbor Road.
He disclosed that he received N350,000 as his share of the ransom from that operation.Investigations revealed that the demolished property belonged to Asemota’s sister, who is currently residing in Italy.
Although she was reportedly unaware of her brother’s criminal activities, the house was used as a meeting point for planning and coordinating the gang’s operations.
Speaking after his arrest, Asemota expressed regret over the consequences of his actions.
RECOMMENDED POSTS
“We kidnapped the woman in her shop at Ramat Park and took her to the bush around Agbor Park. I was with her in the bush for two days, and my share of the ransom money was brought to me.
“We sometimes meet at this compound to plan our activities. The house belongs to my sister who lives in Italy. I feel very sad and confused because she has always supported me,” he said.
Another suspect, Michael Tare, from Delta State, was also apprehended.
He admitted to collecting N1 million as his share of the ransom but returned to Benin out of greed, which led to his arrest.
The gang reportedly demanded N8 million in ransom and later attempted to extort an additional N3 million from their victim, threatening to abduct her again if she failed to comply.
The Edo State Task Force said the demolition of the house was part of the government’s ongoing strategy to clamp down on criminal hideouts and send a clear message that crime will not be tolerated in the state.
The latest crackdown underscores the state’s resolve to dismantle criminal networks and safeguard lives and property.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies in the ongoing efforts to curb kidnapping and other violent crimes.
