Six Nabbed for Exhuming Corpse

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Gombe State has arrested six suspected ritualists accused of exhuming the body of an 85-year-old man just 48 hours after burial at Gadam North Cemetery in Kwami Local Government Area.

The deceased, a respected elder in the community, was buried on September 9.

Shock gripped residents when it was discovered that his grave had been tampered with and his corpse’s eyes removed.

Gombe State NSCDC Commandant, Muhammad Bello Muazu, told reporters on Thursday that the suspects admitted to carrying out the act under the instruction of one Aliyu, who remains at large.

Each suspect was allegedly promised ₦500,000 for their role.

“The command is leaving no stone unturned. The suspects have confessed and remain in our custody.

We are on the trail of the mastermind, and once our investigation is concluded, all those involved will be charged to court,” Muazu said.

He condemned the act as “criminal, inhumane and a violation of both religious and cultural values,” adding that the corps would intensify patrols and security surveillance around cemeteries to deter further incidents.

The arrests have sparked outrage in Gadam community, where residents described the desecration as a disturbing attack on their traditions and a breach of the dignity of the dead.

Community leaders have called on authorities to ensure that those responsible face the full weight of the law.