By Correspondent in Lokoja.
The Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, has raised alarm over a disturbing network of local businesses and individuals allegedly supplying food, water, fuel, and other essentials to kidnappers hiding in forest camps, especially in the western senatorial district of the the state.
In a statement he issued in Lokoja, Fanwo revealed that some bread sellers and sachet water producers are suspected of delivering their products to criminal elements through intermediaries, particularly commercial motorcyclists who act as couriers between town-based vendors and bush hideouts.
“This logistical chain has allowed criminal elements to remain embedded in remote areas for extended periods,” he stated.
Fanwo further disclosed that certain fuel stations have been found complicit in selling petrol in containers, which are then transported to kidnappers to power their operations.
“Even more disturbing is the discovery that some wood contractors are supplying food and basic items to criminal groups in exchange for ‘business protection’ within the forests where they operate,” he added.
The Commissioner emphasized that these revelations are central to the Kogi State Government’s renewed strategy to dismantle all supply lines enabling criminal activity, noting that investigations are ongoing, but actions have already commenced to disrupt these illicit networks.
He warned that any individual or business found aiding kidnappers,whether through sales, logistics, or the provision of land,will be treated as a direct accomplice and prosecuted accordingly.
“Food and water vendors found supplying kidnappers will be prosecuted as criminal enablers. Fuel stations selling petrol for use in criminal hideouts will be shut down, and their owners will face legal action,” Fanwo declared.
Equally troubling, according to him, is the alleged involvement of some traditional rulers and youths who are currently under investigation for reportedly selling land to criminal elements.
“These parcels are believed to be used in constructing detention camps and shelters for kidnapped victims.
“The Government affirms that no one,regardless of status or position,will be spared if found guilty of enabling or abetting criminality,” he said.
Edited by Dada Ahmed
