BENIN CITY, Edo State — Four men have been sentenced to death by hanging by the Edo State Special Criminal Court over their alleged involvement in kidnapping and other criminal offences linked to the Vegetable Market in Benin City.
The convicts — Marvelous Isaac, Wisdom Michael, Rufus Emete Michael and Gift Raphael — were sentenced by Justice Aigbona Momodu after being found guilty on 11 counts brought against them.
The offences were connected to kidnapping activities and other criminal acts reportedly committed at the Vegetable Market area of Benin City.
The case is being described as the first public trial of kidnappers in the state, with the court proceedings and judgment expected by authorities to serve as a deterrent to kidnapping and other related crimes in Edo State.
The death sentence marks a significant development in the state’s efforts to prosecute individuals convicted of kidnapping and other serious criminal offences.
Further details on the case, including the specific charges and the circumstances surrounding the convictions, are expected to emerge from the court proceedings.
