The Plateau State Police Command has dismissed reports about the existence of a human parts market in the state, assuring that no such activities have been detected.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Alabo Alfred, stated in an interview on Friday that there was no intelligence supporting the claim, emphasizing that cases of ritual killings are minimal in the state.
“There is no intelligence report that suggests that a human parts market exists in Plateau; we do not have such here,” Alabo said. “And I can categorically say that we have minimal cases of ritual killings recorded in the state.”
While addressing the issue, Alabo acknowledged the rise in activities linked to internet fraudsters, locally known as “Yahoo boys,” who reportedly kill and harvest human body parts for ritualistic purposes.
He explained that these individuals operate under the influence of native doctors who promise enhanced powers and immunity.
“There are syndicates involved in internet fraud, and they do kill and harvest human parts for ritual purposes,” Alabo added.
“They do that on the directive of their native doctors who promise to boost their powers, chances of hitting better deals, and immunity from arrest.”
Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in the state, corroborated the police’s claim about the minimal cases of ritual killings.
However, Lubo also urged religious leaders to intensify efforts in preaching against ritual killings and emphasized the importance of parents guiding their children away from cultism and internet fraud.
“We must speak to our wards about the dangers of joining cultist groups or indulging in internet fraud,” Lubo urged.
The police and religious leaders continue to call for heightened awareness and stronger community efforts to curb these disturbing crimes.