Human traffickers
Oyo State Police Command has arrested 10 suspected human parts traffickers in a major intelligence-led operation that led to the recovery of suspected human body parts and assorted charms.
The arrests were confirmed on Saturday in Ibadan by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, who said the operation followed months of intelligence gathering and surveillance by officers attached to the Command’s Monitoring Unit.
According to Ayanlade, the suspects were apprehended at different locations in Iseyin and Saki, where security operatives also carried out coordinated searches.
“Following their arrest, operatives conducted searches of the suspects’ hideouts, during which several suspected human parts were recovered.
“The exhibits include one suspected human heart, human flesh, pieces of human skull and assorted charms,” he said.
The police spokesperson disclosed that all recovered exhibits have been secured and will undergo forensic examination as investigations continue.
He explained that the suspects are currently assisting investigators to determine the origin of the suspected human parts, how they were obtained, and the purpose for which they were allegedly intended.
Ayanlade added that the Command is expanding its investigation to track down and arrest other members of the suspected criminal network.
He also said the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Mr. Abimbola Olugbenga, commended the officers involved in the operation for their professionalism and commitment.
The police commissioner, according to Ayanlade, reassured residents that the Command remains committed to eliminating criminal elements across the state and safeguarding lives.
“The command remains resolute in its determination to rid the state of criminal elements and protect the sanctity of human life.”
