NSCDC arrests six for exhuming grave, harvesting human parts in Gombe

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Gombe State has arrested six men for allegedly exhuming the body of an 85-year-old man and removing his eyes for ritual purposes in Kwami Local Government Area.

NSCDC spokesperson, SC Buhari Sa’ad, confirmed that the suspects dug up the grave of the late Mallam Manu Wanzam, buried on September 9 at Gadam North Cemetery.

According to the Corps, the group was led by 39-year-old Kawuji Sarki, a father of six, who confessed that they were contracted by one Aliyu Chindo to extract the deceased’s eyes for ₦500,000 each. Sarki alleged that Chindo absconded with the body parts after collecting them, leaving the gang unpaid before operatives apprehended them.

The other suspects were named as Adamu Umar, 22; Umar Jibrin Aboki, 21; Abdullahi Umar Dauda, 17; Muhammed Isa Chindo, 28; and Manu Sale, 23. One accomplice remains at large.

Describing the act as “barbaric,” Gombe NSCDC Commandant, Jibrin Idris, assured that the suspects would be prosecuted once investigations are concluded.