…the cleric claimed during preliminary questioning that he had purchased the substance in Lagos.
IBADAN, NIGERIA – The iNews Times | An Islamic cleric, identified simply as Alfa Bashiru, has been arrested by the Oyo State Police Command after he was allegedly found in possession of what is suspected to be human flesh.
The shocking discovery occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday when operatives of the Federal Highway Patrol intercepted a white bus with registration number XA 551 IRG at the Toll Gate axis of the Ibadan Expressway. The cleric was reportedly on board the vehicle when officers made the alarming find.
Confirming the incident on Thursday, the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Adewale Osifeso, said the cleric claimed during preliminary questioning that he had purchased the substance in Lagos.
“He has been transferred to the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Iyaganku, for detailed investigation,” Osifeso disclosed in a post on the Command’s verified X (formerly Twitter) handle.
The police have since sent the suspected flesh for forensic analysis to determine its authenticity and trace its source.
“The suspected item is undergoing forensic analysis to determine its authenticity and source,” the police spokesperson stated.
The case has sparked widespread concern over possible ritual practices and trafficking of human body parts, prompting renewed calls for vigilance among security agencies and the public alike.
Separate Development: Abandoned Vehicle Recovered
In a separate operation, officers conducting a routine Stop and Search recovered an abandoned Toyota Camry with registration number LSD 957 JX.
According to Osifeso, the incident occurred when police flagged down the vehicle and the driver suddenly bolted from the scene, leaving the car behind.
“The car has been taken into custody by the Command,” Osifeso said. “Members of the public with legitimate claims to the vehicle are urged to come forward with verifiable documents or contact the Police Command.”
He emphasized that Stop and Search operations were not mere theatrics but critical components of law enforcement strategy.
“These are deliberate measures to ensure safety and maintain law and order within the state,” he noted.
CSP Osifeso also conveyed the appreciation of the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, to the residents of Oyo State for their ongoing cooperation with security efforts.
“We assure the public of continued police action to curb criminal activities and create a safer environment for all,” he added.
