Palpable tension has gripped the Oba community in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State after a newly established state security outfit uncovered over 30 graves and a shrine in a popular hotel suspected of harboring criminal elements.
The property, registered as Udoka Golden Point Hotel and Suites, popularly known as La Cruise Hotel, was demolished on Saturday following a tip-off from a whistleblower and intelligence gathering.
According to the Anambra State government, the hotel, located along Onitsha-Owerri Road, served as a hub for kidnappers and other criminal operations. During the demolition, authorities reportedly discovered partitioned graves on the ground floor, military camouflage, arms, and ammunition.
Christian Aburime, Press Secretary to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, confirmed the demolition, citing the state’s Homeland Security Law, which mandates the destruction of structures linked to kidnapping or criminal activities. He said, “The raid followed credible information from concerned members of the public about the suspicious activities going on there.”
While officials did not confirm whether corpses were recovered or arrests were made, Aburime assured the public that investigations were ongoing and further details would be disclosed.
Residents expressed mixed reactions to the demolition. Some lauded the government for its decisive action, while others questioned whether sufficient investigation had been conducted before the property was pulled down.
In another development, the Agunechemba Security Squad raided a kidnappers’ hideout at a brothel in Akwu-Ukwu Oba, Idemili South. The operation led to the arrest of two suspected kidnappers and five prostitutes, while the building was also demolished in compliance with state law.
Authorities have vowed to track down other suspects linked to the operations, emphasizing the government’s commitment to eradicating criminal activities in the state.
