The Plateau State Police Command has assured residents that cases of ritual killings in the state are minimal and dismissed claims about the existence of a human parts market. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command, Mr. Alfred Alabo, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Jos.
“There is no intelligence report that suggests a human parts market exists in Plateau; we do not have such here,” Alabo stated.
He acknowledged that while ritual killings occur, they are minimal and often linked to internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, who harvest human body parts for money-making rituals.
“Most of these Yahoo boys kill and harvest human parts for ritual purposes. They do that on the directive of their native doctors, who promise to boost their powers, increase their chances of hitting better deals, and grant them immunity from arrest,” Alabo explained.
The PPRO also noted a rise in other criminal activities, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and cultism, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the police. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of residents in Plateau State.
In response to the concerns, Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Plateau, called on religious leaders and parents to discourage youths from engaging in cyber fraud and ritual-related crimes.
“We must preach against ritual killings, cultism, and internet fraud. Parents should also speak to their children about the dangers of joining such groups,” Lubo advised.
DAILY MENTOR reports that the police’s reassurance comes amid growing concerns about criminal activities in the state. While the command has dismissed the existence of a human parts market, it has emphasized the need for collective efforts to address the root causes of crime, particularly among youths.
The Plateau State Police Command continues to work with community leaders, religious organizations, and residents to combat crime and promote peace. The public is encouraged to remain alert and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure a safer environment for all.