Victims Identify Kidnappers in Edo State Court Trial

In an ongoing trial at a special court in Edo State, victims of a kidnapping syndicate identified suspects and recounted paying over N63 million in ransom. The incidents occurred between June 10 and June 15, 2026, when armed men abducted victims from a popular vegetable market along Airport Road, Benin City.

The Edo State Government is prosecuting the suspects—Marvel Isaac (32), Wisdom Michael (36), Rufu Emet Michael (30), and Gift Raphael (27)—on 11 counts, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms. Testimonies revealed that Precious Oseghal was abducted while shopping with her husband, who managed to escape.

She testified that her captors took valuables worth N15 million and that a ransom was paid for her release. Paul Idehen, another witness, corroborated the accounts, stating that his wife was also abducted and a ransom of N12.47 million was paid.

The trial continues with further hearings scheduled.