The Edo State Police Command has arraigned no fewer than 30 suspected murderers, cultists, and others before a court in the state.
The suspects were arraigned on a seven-count charge bordering on murder, cultism, conspiracy, armed attack, and membership of an unlawful society, among others.
The police prosecutor, Polycarp Odion, informed the court that the offences were committed on 1 May 2025.
Odion stated that the suspects, along with others still at large, allegedly conspired among themselves to carry out an armed attack.
He further told the court that on the same day, within the Benin Criminal Division and without lawful authority, the suspects allegedly launched an armed assault against a section of residents in Benin City.
He also alleged that the suspects conspired among themselves to commit murder.
The prosecutor added that, on various dates within Benin City, the suspects and their accomplices at large were involved in conspiracy and membership of an unlawful society.
He noted that the offences are punishable under Sections 412(2), 64, and 247 of the Criminal Law of Edo State, 2022.
Odion prayed the court to remand the accused persons in custodial custody pending advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Counsel to the accused, however, urged the court to grant them bail, arguing that an accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The counsel further submitted that the suspects have credible sureties who are willing to stand for their bail and ensure their presence in court on adjourned dates.
The presiding judge, Justice Williams Azeigbemhin, granted the accused bail in the sum of N1 million each, with one surety in like sum.
Justice Azeigbemhin adjourned the case to 19 May 2025 for hearing
