Police Arrest Four Over Alleged Organ Harvesting, Human Trafficking Syndicate in Nasarawa

Police Arrest Four Over Alleged Organ Harvesting, Human Trafficking Syndicate in Nasarawa

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested four suspects allegedly linked to a human trafficking and illegal organ harvesting syndicate operating in Nasarawa State.

The suspects were paraded on August 27, 2026, by operatives of the Special Tactical Squad (STS) following a sting operation conducted on August 19 at Auta Balifi in Karu Local Government Area of the state.

The operation was carried out based on credible intelligence and led to the arrest of the suspects, while clothes allegedly purchased with proceeds of the criminal activities were recovered as exhibits.

Those arrested were Emmanuel Ode, 23; Dr. Benjamin Oyime, 48, a nephrologist and consultant at Wellington Hospital, Life Camp, Abuja; Dr. Daniel Otukpa, 53, also a nephrologist and Acting Director of Clinical Services at the hospital; and David Idoko, 25.

According to the Police, preliminary investigations indicate that the syndicate allegedly targeted vulnerable and financially disadvantaged young people in Nasarawa State and neighbouring areas, recruiting them under false pretences and exploiting their circumstances to facilitate illegal organ harvesting.

During interrogation, Ode allegedly confessed to recruiting victims. Police said he disclosed that on April 24, 2026, he lured a 22-year-old man identified as Samuel Ezekiel to Wellington Hospital, Life Camp, Abuja, where the victim’s kidney was allegedly harvested in exchange for $1,250, said to be equivalent to about ₦1.7 million.

The Police further said another victim alleged that he was recruited by the same suspect in 2022 and subsequently had his kidney harvested at a hospital, for which he was allegedly paid ₦7 million.

Investigators also uncovered allegations that members of the syndicate forged official documents, including victims’ names, National Identification Numbers, birth certificates, age declarations, affidavits and consent letters, allegedly to facilitate the illegal procedures.

The Nigeria Police Force said investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the syndicate’s activities and identify other individuals allegedly involved in the network.

The Force also said efforts are underway to apprehend fleeing suspects connected to the operation.

The Police reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling human trafficking and illegal organ harvesting networks and protecting vulnerable Nigerians from exploitation.

Police Arrest Four Over Alleged Organ Harvesting, Human Trafficking Syndicate in Nasarawa