Quick Summary:
ImoOrganHarvestProbe2025 as the Imo State government shuts down a hotel and private mortuary in Umuhu, Ngor-Okpala, after discovering decomposed bodies and suspected organ harvesting activities.
The Imo State government has sealed a hotel and a private mortuary in Umuhu Autonomous Community, Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area, following allegations of organ harvesting and the discovery of decomposed and mutilated corpses.
The action came after an inspection visit by a high-powered team led by the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, and the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu.
The facilities, located along the Owerri–Aba Expressway, have been cordoned off as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.
Disturbing Findings
During the inspection, officials reportedly discovered numerous decomposed and mutilated corpses stored in unhygienic conditions at the mortuary.
Preliminary reports from a journalist accompanying the police team indicated that over 100 bodies were found, raising strong suspicions of illegal organ harvesting and criminal exploitation.
Authorities described the scene as gruesome and deeply disturbing, prompting immediate closure of both the mortuary and the adjoining hotel.
Main Suspect Declared Wanted
The facilities are allegedly owned by Stanley Morocco Oparaugo, who has been declared wanted by the police and is currently at large.
Law enforcement agencies have launched a manhunt for Oparaugo, urging the public to report any information that could lead to his arrest.
Ongoing Investigation
The operation forms part of a broader crackdown on kidnapping and violent crimes across Imo State.
Forensic experts have been deployed to document and secure evidence from the scene, while health officials are conducting autopsies and identification procedures on the recovered bodies.
Authorities have assured the public that all accomplices will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Public Alert and Safety Advisory
The Imo State Police Command has issued a public alert, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities in their communities.
Citizens with information on Stanley Morocco Oparaugo’s whereabouts are encouraged to contact the nearest police station or call the official tip line provided by the authorities.
The government reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and eradicating criminal networks operating under the guise of legitimate businesses.
Broader Implications
This discovery has reignited public concern over illegal organ trade and unregulated mortuary operations in parts of Nigeria.
Experts have called for stricter oversight, licensing reforms, and routine inspections of private health and mortuary facilities to prevent similar atrocities.
The Imo State government has vowed to intensify monitoring and strengthen enforcement mechanisms to ensure that criminal enterprises masquerading as medical or hospitality businesses are dismantled permanently.