Troops from the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Benin City have uncovered a hideout used by a criminal syndicate involved in internet fraud, ritual activities, and other serious crimes. The operation took place at a location called Awesome Garden, situated inside First Bank Estate along the Benin-Sapele Bypass in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.
During the raid, thirty-one suspects were arrested. The suspects are believed to be connected to a syndicate engaging in cybercrime, ritual practices, and related offenses. Several items were seized at the scene, including a Toyota vehicle, laptops, smartphones, cash, and a pot filled with fetish objects.
Brigadier General Ebenezer Oduyebo, Commander of the 4 Brigade, stated that the operation is part of the Army’s ongoing efforts to maintain safety and security in Edo State. He described the action as a strong message to criminal groups operating within the state, adding that the Army is fully committed to eradicating crime.
According to preliminary investigations, the syndicate was led by a man identified as Marvin Osabhuoyen, who is currently on the run. Osabhuoyen reportedly deceived some of the victims with fake promises of jobs overseas, only to trap them in criminal activities such as kidnapping, cyber fraud, and armed robbery.
Some victims were reportedly held against their will for up to two years. They came from various parts of the country and were kept under constant surveillance, with no access to the outside world. The group used threats, manipulation, and fear to control them.
Captain Chinoso Oteh, the Brigade’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed the arrests and added that all suspects, victims, and recovered items have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Edo State for further questioning and legal action.
Brigadier General Oduyebo also praised the troops and partner agencies for their efforts in exposing the hideout and working to ensure that criminal activity is stamped out from the state.
