The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Gombe State has arrested six persons accused of exhuming a corpse for ritual purposes in Kwami Local Government Area.
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The suspects, aged between 17 and 39, were picked up during a joint operation carried out by operatives from the state headquarters and the Gadam Division on September 11, 2025.
SC Buhari Saad, spokesperson of the command, disclosed in a statement on Friday that the suspects were apprehended for allegedly digging up the grave of late Mallam Manu Wanzam, an 85-year-old resident of Gadam, who had been buried only two days earlier.
Those arrested include Adamu Umar, 22; Umar Jibrin Aboki, 21; Abdullahi Umar Dauda, 17; Muhammed Isa Chindo, 28; Kawuji Sarki, 39; and Manu Sale, 23. According to the NSCDC, the group allegedly removed the deceased’s eyes, which they claimed were to be sold for N500,000 each, before reburying the body.
One of their accomplices is still on the run, with efforts ongoing to bring him into custody.
The State Commandant, Jibrin Idris, described the incident as both unlawful and inhumane. He assured residents that the suspects would face justice once investigations are completed. Idris also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest security formation.
The corps commended community members for their cooperation, noting that their input was crucial to the arrests. The suspects are expected to be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
