By our Reporter
The Nigeria Police Force has paraded four suspects allegedly linked to an organ harvesting and human trafficking syndicate operating in Nasarawa State.
The suspects were arrested by operatives of the Special Tactical Squad (STS) following a sting operation conducted on August 19, 2026, at Auta Balifi in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, based on credible intelligence. Clothes allegedly purchased with proceeds of the crime were also recovered as exhibits.
The suspects were identified as Emmanuel Ode, 23; Dr Benjamin Oyime , 48, a nephrologist and kidney consultant to Wellington Hospital, Life Camp, Abuja; Dr Daniel Otukpa, 53, also a nephrologist and Acting Director of Clinical Services at Wellington Hospital; and David Idoko, 25.
According to the Police, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects allegedly targeted vulnerable and financially disadvantaged young people in Nasarawa State and neighbouring areas, recruiting them under false pretences for illegal organ harvesting.
During interrogation, Ode allegedly confessed to recruiting victims. He reportedly disclosed that on April 24, 2026, he lured a 22-year-old man, identified as Samuel Ezekiel, to Wellington Hospital, Life Camp, Abuja, where his kidney was allegedly harvested in exchange for $1,250, equivalent to about N1.7 million.
The Police said a second victim also alleged that he was recruited by the same agent in 2022 and taken to a hospital where his kidney was allegedly harvested, for which he was paid N7 million.
Investigators further alleged that members of the syndicate forged official documents, including victims’ names, National Identification Numbers (NIN), birth certificates, age declarations, affidavits and consent letters, to facilitate the alleged organ harvesting operations.
The Nigeria Police Force said efforts were ongoing to identify and arrest other fleeing members of the syndicate, while investigations continue to establish the full extent of the alleged criminal activities.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to dismantling human trafficking and organ harvesting networks and protecting vulnerable Nigerians from exploitation.
