Over 100 Mutilated Bodies Found in Nigeria in Suspected Organ-Harvesting Ring
NGOR OKPALA, Nigeria — Nigerian authorities have uncovered a chilling organ-harvesting operation after discovering more than 100 mutilated corpses in a mortuary linked to a local hotel. The Imo State Police Command revealed that the investigation began following reports of multiple kidnappings near the Jessy Best Hotel and the adjacent Ugwudi mortuary in Ngor Okpala.
Police identified High Chief Stanley Oparaugo, also known as “Morocco,” as the alleged ringleader of the criminal network. Oparaugo, who owns both the hotel and mortuary, is currently wanted by Nigerian police. Investigators say victims were lured to the hotel, where they were robbed and abducted. Families were forced to pay ransoms, but many never saw their loved ones again.
“At the mortuary, decomposed and mutilated corpses were discovered in unhygienic conditions, raising suspicions of illegal organ-harvesting activities,” said Police spokesperson Henry Okoye. The police conducted forensic examinations and recovered crucial evidence from Oparaugo’s residence, intensifying the probe into this gruesome operation.
The discovery comes amid a rising wave of kidnappings and violent crimes in Nigeria, which have drawn international concern. The Nigerian government has recently taken steps to combat such violence, including securing the release of over 100 schoolchildren abducted in a separate incident, as reported by local media.
Security has been heightened along the Owerri–Aba Expressway, a key route near the crime scenes, with authorities assuring travelers of their safety during the holiday season.
This case highlights the broader challenges Nigeria faces in addressing organized crime and human rights abuses. The Interpol has long warned of the dangers posed by organ trafficking rings worldwide, and Nigeria’s discovery adds to the urgency for coordinated law enforcement responses.
The U.S. Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons Report has previously documented the prevalence of human trafficking and related crimes in Nigeria, urging increased vigilance and international cooperation.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Police Force continues to pursue leads in the case, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation to dismantle such networks. Authorities have urged anyone with information on Oparaugo’s whereabouts to come forward.
This disturbing revelation underscores the need for enhanced protections against human trafficking and organ harvesting, crimes that exploit vulnerable populations and violate fundamental human rights. As investigations continue, the international community watches closely, hoping for justice for the victims and stronger safeguards against future atrocities.
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