Crime

27 Alleged Kidnappers and ESN Members Loyal To Simon Ekpa Has Been Killed In Enugu

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 21st, 2024.

27 Alleged Kidnappers and ESN Members Loyal To Simon Ekpa Has Been Killed In Enugu

The Enugu State government has reported the deaths of at least 27 individuals, identified as suspected kidnappers and members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) loyal to Simon Ekpa, following operations by security forces. The announcement was made by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration on Wednesday.

According to a statement from the governor’s media office, these individuals were killed in encounters with security personnel at various locations over the past two weeks. The statement highlights that some of those killed were affiliated with Simon Ekpa, a Finland-based leader known for his separatist activities.

The statement also mentioned that local residents have urged the governor to utilize the state’s criminal code to demolish properties used by kidnappers and other criminals to deter future illegal activities.

During an early morning briefing at Ugwuogo Nike-Opi Road, Superintendent Onochie Ezeh, who led a joint security operation, detailed the successful raid on a large poultry farm at Ogbeke Nike. This location had been used by a seven-man kidnapping gang to hide their hostages. Ezeh reported that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to eliminate criminal activities in the region.

“We had been tracking these kidnappers for over three months. They were known to abduct victims and hold them in the poultry farm at Ogbeke Nike until ransoms were paid,” Ezeh explained. “When we arrived, the criminals fired upon us, and we responded with superior firepower, neutralizing them.”

Ezeh further praised the combined security task force established by Governor Peter Mbah, noting significant progress in combating criminal activities. He reported that the task force had dismantled over seven criminal gangs, predominantly kidnappers and unknown gunmen, and had identified several criminal hideouts across the state.

“These operations are not about seeking media attention but ensuring safety and peace for our residents,” Ezeh emphasized. “We have successfully neutralized over 30 criminals and recovered weapons and other valuables during these raids. We are committed to eliminating these threats from the state.”

Dr. Kate Pamela, a survivor rescued from one of the kidnapping locations, expressed her distress over the traumatic experience and the need for justice. “The poultry farm where we were held should be shut down and turned into a landfill,” she said.