The arrests were made on August 19, 2026, by the Special Tactical Squad (STS), following credible intelligence about the syndicate's illicit activities.
According to CSP Ani Iniedu, the Force Public Relations Officer, a covert operation was conducted around 6 PM in Auta Balifi, Karu Local Government Area, leading to the recovery of clothing purchased with the proceeds of the crime.
The suspects include Emmanuel Ode, 23, from Auta Balifi; Dr. Benjamin Oyime, 48, a nephrologist from Edo State; Dr. Daniel Otukpa, 53, a nephrologist and Acting Director of Clinical Services at Wellington Hospital, Abuja; and David Idoko, 25.
During interrogation, Ode confessed to luring vulnerable victims under false pretenses. He admitted to enticing a 22-year-old man, Samuel Ezekiel, to Wellington Hospital, where his kidney was allegedly harvested for $1,250 (approximately N1.7 million).
Another victim revealed he was similarly lured in 2022, with his kidney taken for N7 million.
Investigators found that the suspects targeted uneducated young individuals in Nasarawa and neighboring regions, exploiting their financial struggles to gain consent for illegal organ removal.
Evidence also emerged of forged official documents, including names, national identification numbers, and consent letters, used to facilitate these heinous acts.
The police confirmed that investigations are ongoing to apprehend additional suspects linked to the syndicate.
They reiterated their commitment to dismantling human trafficking and organ harvesting networks nationwide, aiming to protect vulnerable Nigerians from exploitation.
The shocking nature of these arrests has raised alarm about the prevalence of such syndicates and the urgent need for greater protections for at-risk populations.
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