The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested six suspects alleged to have exhumed a corpse for ritual purposes in the Kwami Local Government Area of Gombe State.
The suspects, identified as Adamu Umar (22), Umar Jibrin Aboki (21), Abdullahi Umar Dauda (17), Muhammed Isa Chindo (28), Kawuji Sarki (39), and Manu Sale (23), were apprehended during a joint operation by officers of the State Command Headquarters and Gadam Division on September 11, 2025, between 10:00 and 11:00 pm.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, SC Buhari Saad, in a statement issued on Friday, the syndicate allegedly desecrated the burial of the late Mallam Manu Wanzam, an 85-year-old Gadam native who was buried only two days before.
“Investigation revealed that one Kawuji Sarki contracted Muhammed Isa Chindo, who further engaged the other suspects, to exhume the body and harvest human parts — specifically the eyes — at the price of ₦500,000 each,” Saad disclosed.
He also said that the suspects admitted to removing the deceased’s eyes before reburying the body. One accomplice remains at large, and security officials are stepping up their attempts to find him.
While denouncing the conduct, State Commandant Jibrin Idris reminded people that the Command is committed to protecting communities.
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“This crime is not only a violation of the law but also a grave assault on human dignity and cultural values. We want to assure the good people of Gombe State that justice will be served,” Idris said.
He thanked the public for their assistance and encouraged them to be watchful.
“We call on residents to report suspicious activities promptly to the nearest security formation. Together, we can defeat these criminal networks,” Idris added.
The NSCDC stated that after the investigations are completed, the individuals will be charged in court.
Human remains being excavated for ritual purposes are part of a repeating pattern of criminal conduct in parts of Nigeria, motivated by deep-seated beliefs in occult activities and the desire for immediate wealth or power.
Security services have repeatedly warned that these actions, which include grave desecration and body parts harvesting, not only violate the law but also undermine communal values and religious sensibilities.
