- Safiu Kehinde
The Edo State Special Court for Kidnapping and Cultism has, in its maiden judgement in a kidnapping case, sentenced a four-member kidnapping syndicate to death by hanging or lethal injection following their conviction.
The suspects identified as Marvelous Isaac, 32; Gift Raphael, 27; Wisdom Michael; and Rufus Michael, were arraigned before the court on an 11-count charge bordering on kidnapping, conspiracy, armed robbery, possession of firearms, among other offences.
In the sitting presided over by Justice Aigbona Terry Momodu, the court held that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and therefore sentenced them to death by hanging or lethal injection.
Their conviction and sentencing is coming months after they reportedly abducted a woman at the Vegetable Market, off Airport Road in Benin City.
The disturbing incident captured in a viral video showed how the kidnappers had initially abducted the woman’s husband who managed to escape.
This led to the kidnap of the wife.
In the wake of the incident, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, set up a Special Court to try cases of kidnapping and cultism.
Speaking during the parade of the convicted kidnappers after their arrest, the governor readiness to sign their death warrant if convicted.
Prior to his judgement, Justice Momodu said the prosecution called seven witnesses and tendered seven exhibits to establish allegations of conspiracy, kidnapping, armed robbery, illegal possession of firearms and membership of a secret cult, among other offences, against the convicts.
He said the Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) footage tendered as evidence assisted the police in detecting and proving the crime.
“In this age, crime has become sophisticated. I encourage all residents to acquire and install CCTV cameras in their homes, shops, vehicles and business premises.
“It is no longer a luxury but a necessity for security.
“I call on the state government to encourage citizens in this regard through enlightenment and, where possible, by providing CCTV cameras in public places like markets, parks and public institutions, as it greatly helps in the detection of crime and maintenance of public order,” he said
The judge commended the Nigerian Police for its efficiency, diligence and prompt investigation, which led to the arrest of the defendants in the kidnapping case.
Responding to the judgment, Felix Imasuen, counsel to Raphael, the fourth convict, said the court had delivered its judgment, adding that his client would appeal against it.
On his part, the state’s counsel, Roland Otaru (SAN), Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, commended the judiciary for upholding the law.
According to him, justice had been served and would continue to be served in the state.
Otaru said he would continue to do the right thing as the Attorney-General of the state.
He added that the judgment would serve as a deterrent to others involved in crimes and criminality in the state.
