The Special Criminal Court established by the Edo State Government to accelerate the prosecution of kidnapping and cult-related offences has commenced proceedings, with three suspects ordered to be remanded in a correctional facility.
The court, presided over by Justice Aigbona Terry Momodu, began sitting after its constitution by the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, in line with the directive of Governor Monday Okpebholo to strengthen the State’s response to violent crimes.
At the inaugural session, the court granted separate applications by the Edo State Police Command seeking the remand of the suspects for an initial period of 14 days pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Among those remanded were 42-year-old Owen Osarumwense and 29-year-old Austin Oshumogo, who are facing a seven-count charge bordering on alleged conspiracy, cultism, unlawful possession of firearms and armed robbery.
Police prosecutors informed the court that investigations into the allegations were ongoing and requested that the suspects be kept in custody while prosecutorial processes continue.
In a separate case, the court also ordered the remand of 28-year-old Kingsley Matthias Aliu over allegations of rape and kidnapping.
According to the police, Aliu allegedly lured a 29-year-old married woman into a bush, sexually assaulted her and later restrained her before demanding a ransom of N12 million from her family for her release.
After considering the applications, Justice Momodu ordered that the three suspects be remanded in a correctional centre and adjourned the matters until July 15, 2026.
Addressing lawyers and other court officials during the inaugural sitting, the judge stressed the need for diligence and professionalism in the handling of cases before the court, noting that efficient case management was essential to the fair administration of justice.