Enugu state moves decisively against ritual killer: Obi-Levi Obieze to face justice

DDM News

The Enugu State Government has declared its resolve to ensure that arrested kidnap suspect and alleged ritualist, Obi-Levi Obieze, faces the full wrath of the law.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that Obieze was apprehended along the Badagry-Seme expressway by officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) during a routine patrol operation.

The fugitive, who had evaded law enforcement for months, was finally captured after an alert response from immigration authorities stationed near the border.

In an official statement issued on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the state welcomed the breakthrough with “delight and determination.”

He confirmed that Obieze’s two luxury homes in Umumba Ndiagu, Ezeagu Local Government Area, were demolished under Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State.

The demolition was carried out on Tuesday as part of government efforts to dismantle the financial base of known criminal actors and to demonstrate zero tolerance for crime.

Onyia stated that the process followed due legal procedures, in accordance with laws governing properties linked to violent crimes like kidnapping and ritual killings.

Local residents described the demolished houses as opulent structures complete with private boreholes and fortified fences, signaling the kind of wealth amassed from alleged illicit activities.

Prof. Onyia emphasized that Enugu State will not provide sanctuary to criminal elements, stressing that all illicit gains will be seized or destroyed in line with the law.

He credited the success of Obieze’s arrest to collaborative efforts between community members, civilian security volunteers, and formal agencies, who all contributed to tracking his network.

“This arrest has emboldened the state’s determination to pursue justice vigorously for all who suffered from the operations of this suspect and his accomplices,” Onyia stated.

Authorities believe Obieze is at the center of a shadowy network responsible for a string of abductions and suspected ritual killings that date back to 2023.

The Enugu State Government assured victims’ families that every effort will be made to bring all those involved in the crimes to account.

Prof. Onyia reiterated that the administration under Governor Peter Mbah would not condone criminality in any guise across communities in the state.

He called for increased vigilance from traditional rulers, town union leaders, and neighborhood security outfits to prevent future occurrences.

Community stakeholders were warned not to shield suspected criminals, as doing so would expose them to legal consequences as accomplices.

Obieze is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where investigators will file formal charges including kidnapping, conspiracy, and ritual murder.

Sources within law enforcement say his criminal record stretches back over two years and includes cases of forced disappearances in Enugu and neighboring states.

Families of missing persons linked to Obieze’s operations have expressed hope that justice will finally be served and long-standing cases resolved.

Meanwhile, community leaders in Ezeagu have lauded the state’s decisive actions and pledged to assist in uncovering other collaborators linked to the suspect.

Residents described Obieze’s activities as shrouded in secrecy, with several people afraid to speak out until his arrest.

Prof. Onyia assured citizens that security measures are being heightened to prevent future threats from similar networks.

He said the government is also working closely with law enforcement to tighten border surveillance and community intelligence gathering.

The government emphasized that this arrest should serve as a strong warning to others who believe they can operate above the law.

Obieze’s downfall, according to observers, is a product of persistent collaboration between local communities and state institutions dedicated to public safety.

In recent months, Enugu State has stepped up security operations to curb rising incidents of kidnapping, cultism, and ritual practices in rural areas.

Officials say these efforts will continue, with an intensified campaign to expose, arrest, and prosecute those fueling such atrocities.

The government also promised continued support to affected families through counseling, legal aid, and reintegration efforts for displaced or traumatized persons.

This high-profile arrest, demolition of assets, and ongoing investigation mark a significant shift in how the state is responding to organized crime.

With Obieze now in custody, attention turns to the judicial process and the extent of his alleged network, which could unravel further connections.

The state reiterated its commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for all citizens and warned that no one involved in criminality would be spared.

As investigations progress, more arrests are expected, as authorities mine intelligence from Obieze’s captured phones and records.

For now, the people of Enugu can breathe a little easier, knowing that one of the region’s most feared criminals has been taken off the streets.

This case stands as a stern reminder that law enforcement in Enugu, backed by community resolve and government will, is rising to meet the moment.

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