Authorities in Imo State have shut down a hotel and a private mortuary in the Ngor-Okpala area after officers uncovered several decomposed and mutilated bodies during a weekend operation.

According to report, the facilities are allegedly tied to a suspected kidnapper who is now on the run.

Police spokesperson Henry Okoye said on Monday that the raid followed a credible tip from residents of the Umuhu autonomous community.

Investigators had intensified surveillance in the area in recent weeks due to reports of unexplained disappearances. The discovery, Okoye explained, has prompted a full investigation into what appears to be an illegal organ-harvesting network.

The operation involved the Imo health commissioner, a forensic pathologist, local government officials, and community vigilantes working alongside police. Their inspection of the mortuary revealed bodies stored in unhygienic and disturbing conditions, which raised immediate suspicion of criminal activity.

In his statement, Okoye noted that both the hotel and the mortuary were sealed on the directive of the Imo State Government. He added that a search of the suspect’s residence produced “crucial exhibits,” although investigators have not publicly confirmed the nature of the materials recovered.

Police have declared the main suspect wanted and launched a state-wide manhunt. Meanwhile, security has been reinforced along the Owerri–Aba Expressway, a major travel route during the holiday season.

Okoye reassured the public that investigators are working closely with forensic specialists to determine the identities of the victims and the scale of the alleged organ-harvesting operation. He emphasized that “all accomplices will be identified and brought to justice.”

The incident has sparked widespread concern among residents, many of whom are calling for stricter oversight of private morgues and hospitality businesses in rural communities.

As the investigation progresses, authorities have urged anyone with information about the suspect or the facility’s activities to come forward. Police say updates will be provided as forensic analyses continue.