- Safiu Kehinde
The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two self-acclaimed clerics and a motorcyclist over alleged possession of human parts.
As disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, the apprehension of the suspects commenced with the interception of an unregistered motorcycle along Adekile area of Agugu in Oyo state.
The rider, identified as Oyataegbe Joseph, was found with a package containing what was suspected to be human flesh which prompted his arrest and interrogation.
“It was during one such operation along Adekile area of Agugu that a patrol team intercepted an unregistered Bajaj Boxer motorcycle.
“During a search of the pillion, the rider was apprehended on the spot, and a package containing flesh suspected to be human parts (intestine) was recovered.
“Following this discovery, the apprehended pillion rider, identified as Oyategbe Joseph, male, of Ibadan, was interrogated.” Ayanlade wrote.
The suspect, according to the police spokesperson, confessed that he had obtained the suspected human parts from an unknown individual at Oritaperin area and further admitted to selling the items to the two self-acclaimed clerics identified as Alfa Onaolapo Taiwo and Pastor Ayodele Taiwo.
The clerics were thereafter arrested in follow-up operation.
They confessed purchasing the human parts from Oyategbe.
“Acting promptly on this intelligence, the Command swiftly apprehended Alfa Onaolapo Taiwo and Pastor Ayodele Taiwo and brought them to the station for interrogation.
“Both suspects confessed to purchasing the suspected human parts from Oyategbe Joseph.
“The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for a discreet and thorough investigation.
“Upon the conclusion of investigations, all suspects will be charged to court.” The statement read further.
The Oyo Police Command confirmed that all three suspects are currently in police custody while reassuring the public that every necessary measure is being taken to ensure that those involved are brought to justice.
It appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report any information regarding the possession or sale of human parts to the nearest police station or security agency, emphasizing that community cooperation remains critical in maintaining law and order.