Imo Govt Seals Hotel, Mortuary Over Alleged Kidnapping, Organ-Harvesting Activities

The Imo State Government has sealed a hotel and a private mortuary in Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area over alleged links to kidnapping and suspected human organ harvesting.

The action followed an inspection visit by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Chioma Egu; the Chief Pathologist of the Imo State Specialist Hospital, Dr Ibeaja Okechukwu; and the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma.

The development followed after decomposing and mutilated corpses were reportedly discovered in the facility.

In a statement issued by the spokesperson of the state police, Henry Okoye, the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence connected to a suspect, Stanley Oparaugo, who is currently on the run.

Police said the inspection extended to suspected criminal hideouts at Umuhu Autonomous Community in Ngor-Okpala, along the Owerri–Aba Expressway.

According to the statement, “During the operation, a hotel and private mortuary allegedly owned by the suspect were searched.

“At the mortuary, decomposed and mutilated human bodies were found in unhygienic and disturbing conditions, raising suspicion of possible illegal organ-harvesting activities.”

Authorities also searched the suspect’s residence, where what police described as “important exhibits” were recovered.

The police spokesperson added, “Forensic experts have documented and secured evidence from the scene. The Commissioner of Police assures residents that all accomplices connected to the crime will be identified, tracked and prosecuted.”

The statement further read, “The suspect, Mr Stanley Morocco Oparaugo, has been declared wanted. Members of the public with useful information on his whereabouts are urged to report to the nearest police station.”

The Imo State Government has since ordered the immediate closure and sealing of both facilities pending the conclusion of investigations.