Imo Govt Seals Hotel, Mortuary Over Suspected Organ-Harvesting, Kidnapping Ring
The Imo State Government has shut down a hotel and a private mortuary in Umuowa, Ngor-Okpala after officials discovered decomposed and mutilated corpses stored in suspicious conditions. The findings have sparked fears of a possible organ-harvesting and kidnapping network operating in the area.
Both facilities, owned by Stanley Morocco Oparaugo, were sealed during a joint operation involving the Ministry of Health, forensic experts, vigilante groups, and the police. Oparaugo is currently on the run, and authorities say “relevant exhibits” recovered from his residence are under forensic review.
Police Commissioner Henry Okoye described the discoveries as “deeply troubling,” confirming ongoing investigations into potential organised crime, illegal corpse storage, and suspected organ trafficking.
Residents of Ngor-Okpala have expressed shock, calling for transparency and swift action. Forensic teams are currently documenting all recovered bodies to aid identification and determine the cause of death.
Officials say the incident exposes major lapses in the regulation of private mortuaries and hotels, urging the government to strengthen oversight and ensure justice for the victims.