Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested two suspects, including the manager of a cemetery, over the alleged exhumation of a newly buried corpse and the theft of its casket.
The incident reportedly occurred late on August 3 after a resident noticed two men transporting a casket on an unregistered motorcycle under suspicious circumstances.
The witness confronted the pair, prompting one suspect to flee while the other was apprehended and handed over to security operatives.
During questioning, the arrested suspect allegedly confessed that he and his accomplice dug up a freshly buried grave, removed the corpse from the casket, and planned to sell the casket for financial gain.
Police recovered the stolen casket and the motorcycle used in the operation before expanding investigations to identify other people connected to the crime.
Inside Akwaibom State:
Man Accused of Terrorising Family, Community with Illegal Firearm in Akwaibom
Police Foil Deadly Bomb Plot at Ikot Ekpene Correctional Centre in Akwaibom
Police Raid Criminal Hideouts, Arrest 12 Suspects, Recover Guns, Drugs in Akwa Ibom, Delta
Further investigations led to the arrest of the cemetery manager, who is accused of collaborating with the suspects. Investigators said he admitted to participating in the scheme, claiming it was his first involvement in such an offence.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect and any other accomplices linked to the case.
The Commissioner of Police condemned the incident, describing it as a serious violation of the dignity of the deceased and an act that offends the cultural, moral and religious values of society. He assured residents that everyone involved would be brought to justice in accordance with the law.
About The Author
