Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have arrested a mortician after uncovering an unlicensed mortuary where eight embalmed corpses were being stored in Isong Inyang community along the Calabar–Ikom Highway in Akamkpa, Cross River State.
Security sources said the discovery followed intelligence reports that prompted officers from the Cross River State Police Command to raid the facility late Thursday morning.
Upon entry, officers reportedly found eight dried and preserved bodies inside the embalmment hall.
The operator of the facility, identified as Sunday Ben Reuben, was taken into custody.
Investigators said he admitted running the mortuary without government approval or the required licences.
Sources added that even the property owner was unaware the building had been converted into a mortuary.
Reuben, said to be a native of Nsit Ibom in Akwa Ibom State, had been operating as a mortician in the area before the discovery.
Authorities believe the illegal facility may pose serious public health risks due to the improper handling and storage of human remains.
A broader investigation is now underway to determine how long the mortuary had been operating and whether other individuals were involved.
Residents in the community expressed shock at the discovery as police continue inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the case.
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