During an ongoing trial in Benin City, victims of a vegetable market kidnapping ring have testified about the substantial financial losses they suffered. Five witnesses appeared before the special court established by the Edo State Government to describe how they were abducted and forced to pay a collective ransom exceeding N63 million.
The four defendants, identified as Marvelous Isaac, Wisdom Michael, Rufus Emete Michael, and Gift Raphael, face an 11-count charge that includes kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and illegal firearm possession. The suspects have entered pleas of not guilty to all allegations.
Mrs. Precious Oseghale, the first witness, recalled her abduction on June 14, 2026, while shopping for groceries. She testified that gunmen in a red Lexus RX 350 intercepted her family and forced her into the forest after her husband escaped. She described being released only after a significant ransom was paid, noting that her attackers also stole jewelry worth over N15 million. Her husband corroborated her testimony, while Mr. Paul Idehen, another victim, confirmed that the suspects utilized his stolen vehicle for their criminal operations after altering its color and license plates.
Additional witnesses shared similar experiences of being targeted in various parts of Benin City. One victim detailed a ransom payment of N12.47 million, while an elderly woman recounted paying a combined N30 million to secure her release after being held by two separate groups. All witnesses positively identified the defendants in court. Justice Aigbona Terry Momodu has adjourned the proceedings until July 21, 2026, for further testimony.
