The Oyo State Police Command has arrested ten suspected human parts dealers and recovered what is believed to be human heart, pieces of human skull and other body parts during raids in Iseyin and Saki areas of the state.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, on Saturday, the police said the arrests followed months of intelligence gathering, discreet surveillance and monitoring of the suspects’ activities across the state.
The suspects were arrested at their various hideouts by operatives of the Command Monitoring Unit in an intelligence-led operation.
The suspects were identified as Adam Ibrahim, 42; Nasiru Kabiru, 22; Tijani Wasiu, 54; Abiola Nasiru, 45; Amusa Gbadamosi, 57; Raheem Taofeek, 46; Jimoh Muritala, 35; Suleiman Busari, 47; Ganiyu Nurudeen, 36; and Usman Abdullahi, 52.
According to the statement, searches conducted at the suspects’ hideouts led to the recovery of several suspected human parts, including one suspected human heart, human flesh, pieces of human skull and assorted charms.
The Command said the recovered exhibits had been secured for forensic examination as investigation continues.
The police claimed the suspects confessed during interrogation to various levels of involvement in dealing in human parts for ritual purposes. They are also assisting investigators in determining the source, procurement and intended use of the recovered human parts.
The police added that efforts were ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the alleged syndicate.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commended the operatives for the intelligence-led operation and their painstaking efforts in apprehending the suspects.
He assured residents that the Command remained committed to tackling criminal activities and protecting the sanctity of human life across the state.
The Commissioner also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly provide credible information that could assist the police in preventing and detecting criminal activities.
(Ripples)