Troops of the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Benin City have uncovered a criminal hideout allegedly operated by a syndicate involved in internet fraud and ritualistic activities.
The operation, carried out on Tuesday, led to the arrest of thirty-one suspects and the recovery of incriminating items.
Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General Ebenezer Oduyebo, who confirmed the raid, said the building was located within First Bank Estate, popularly known as Awesome Garden, along the Benin-Sapele Bypass in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.
He stated: “The Brigade remains fully committed to its mission of ensuring safety and security for all residents of Edo State. This operation is a clear warning to criminal syndicates that their days are numbered.”
The arrested suspects, believed to be involved in cybercrime and ritual-related offences, have been handed over to the Edo State Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Items recovered from the scene included a Toyota vehicle, several smartphones, laptops, cash, a pot containing fetish materials, and other objects suspected to be linked to cyber and ritual crimes.
Preliminary investigations indicated that some individuals arrested were deceived by the leader of the syndicate, identified as Mr. Marvin Osabhuoyen, who is currently on the run. Osabhuoyen allegedly lured victims with false promises of lucrative employment opportunities abroad, only to coerce them into criminal activities such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and cyber fraud.
It was further revealed that some victims had been confined within the premises for periods ranging between one and two years, denied freedom of movement, and subjected to manipulation and fear.
Public Relations Officer of the 4 Brigade, Captain Chinoso Oteh, also confirmed the arrest, stating: “Arrested suspects, victims, and items recovered have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Edo State Command for further interrogation and prosecution.”
He added that the Brigade Commander commended the troops and other collaborating agencies for their resilience and dedication in ensuring that Edo State is free from criminal activities.
