An Edo State Special Criminal Court sitting in Benin City on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, sentenced four persons to death by hanging over the abduction of a woman and related offences.
The convicts are Marvellous Isaac, 32; Wisdom Michael, 36; Rufus Emete Michael, 30; and Gift Raphael, 27.
Justice Aigbona Terry Momodu handed down the sentence after their trial on an 11-count charge bordering on kidnapping, conspiracy, armed robbery, cultism and unlawful possession of firearms.
The case stemmed from the June 14 abduction of a woman at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road, Benin City. She was reportedly seized by armed men and later released unharmed.
Police investigations led to the arrest of the defendants and the recovery of a red Lexus RX 350, a pump-action shotgun, a motorcycle and mobile phones linked to the case.
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The prosecution called seven witnesses and tendered documentary and physical evidence, including interrogation videos, written statements, a voice recording, the firearm and the vehicle. The defendants had pleaded not guilty.
Isaac was arrested on June 18 during an alleged gun battle with police operatives, while another suspected gang member, identified as Precious, was killed. The other three defendants were subsequently arrested.
The specialised court, established to fast-track kidnapping, cultism and other violent-crime cases, commenced operations on July 1, 2026.
Tuesday’s judgment was its maiden verdict.
The ruling followed a separate Edo High Court judgment in June, when five persons were sentenced to death for the abduction and murder of lawyer Iyoha Osobase. A sixth defendant was discharged and acquitted.