More Than 100 Mutilated Bodies Found in Suspected Organ‑Harvesting Ring in Imo State, Nigeria

Nigerian authorities say an intelligence-led investigation has uncovered a suspected organ‑harvesting network after raids in Ngor Okpala, Imo State.

Investigation and Arrest Target

In a statement posted on X, the Imo State Police Command said the probe began following reports of repeated kidnappings near a hotel and a private mortuary. Officers identified a suspect, named as High Chief Stanley Oparaugo and widely known by the alias "Morocco," whom police describe as the alleged ringleader. Authorities say Oparaugo is currently wanted and believed to be at large.

Scene at Hotel and Mortuary

Police allege the suspect owned the Jessy Best Hotel in Ihitte Okwe and a nearby private mortuary called Ugwudi. According to investigators, victims were reportedly lured to the hotel, robbed and abducted. Some families were forced to pay ransoms, and in several cases relatives who paid never saw their loved ones again.

When security forces raided the hotel they found it abandoned. At the mortuary officers discovered decomposed and mutilated corpses stored in unsanitary conditions, leading to suspicions that organs had been removed for illicit sale. A police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, said the number of bodies found exceeded 100.

Evidence, Forensics and Security Measures

Police said forensic teams have been documenting evidence and that "crucial exhibits" were seized from the suspect’s residence. The Imo State Command also said it has strengthened security along the Owerri–Aba Expressway and reassured holiday travellers of heightened protection while the investigation continues.

Wider Context

Authorities noted the discovery comes amid a broader rise in kidnappings and violent crime in parts of Nigeria. Separately, local reports and official sources said the government secured the release of about 100 schoolchildren who were abducted from St. Mary's School in Papiri, Niger State, on Nov. 21.

The police announcement and the gruesome findings have intensified concerns about criminal networks that target vulnerable people for ransom and possible organ trafficking. Forensic and investigative work is ongoing and police have urged anyone with information to come forward.