Edo State Concludes Case Against Suspected Kidnappers

The Edo State Government concluded its case on Tuesday in the trial of four suspected kidnappers, having called seven witnesses at a special court set up by Governor Monday Okpebholo to address kidnapping and cult-related offenses. The suspects—Marvellous Isaac (32), Wisdom Michael (36), Rufus Emete Michael (30), and Gift Raphael (27)—are charged with ten counts including kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and unlawful possession of firearms.

The prosecution, led by Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General Prof Roland Otaru, presented five witnesses last week and two on Tuesday, including victims and Investigative Police Officers (IPOs). Evidence included video documents and a voice note from Gift Raphael, along with a pump-action gun and other items.

The court, presided over by Justice Aigbona Terry Momodu, has adjourned the case to July 24, 2026, for the defendants to present their defense. Edo State Solicitor-General Stephen Okoror emphasized the government's commitment to combating crime through this special court.