177 ORGAN HARVESTERS, RITUAL KILLERS ARRESTED IN EBONYI. (PHOTO).

 177 organ harvesters, ritual killers arrested in Ebonyi

The Ebonyi State Police Command announced the arrest of 177 suspects for various crimes in October 2024, including four linked to alleged organ harvesting and ritual killings.

At a news conference in Abakaliki on Friday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, disclosed the arrests, which included 162 males and 15 females. Ninety-two suspects have been charged to court, with others pending further investigation.

Updating on behalf of CP Anthonia Uche-Anya, Ukandu said, “The command has employed strategic steps, including increased stakeholder engagement, to reduce crime to the barest minimum.”

He highlighted achievements aimed at creating a “safe and prosperous environment for socio-economic growth in the state,” citing efforts that have significantly reduced violent crimes.

Among the cases, Ukandu reported an investigation into organ harvesting that began after Mrs Blessing Chikezie reported her husband, Mr Idenyi Chikezie, missing on October 11.

He was last seen on a business trip to Lagos in September.

DSP Ukandu stated, “Command operatives from the Anti-kidnapping Unit, through diligent investigation, arrested Innocent Elebe and Eze Elechi. Their statements led to the arrest of Obinna Nwanguru and Oda Peter.

“They confessed to killing Idenyi Chikezie, Chibu Odii, and Eze Fabian on different dates, attempting to extract their blood/organs for use in treating a cognitively impaired person (Down syndrome).”

The command reported that two corpses have been recovered, while efforts are ongoing to locate the remains of the third victim.

Other arrests included suspects involved in kidnapping, murder, robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms.

The command reiterated its dedication to tackling crime and securing the safety of Ebonyi State residents.