The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of an Islamic cleric, identified as Alfa Basiru, after items suspected to be human flesh were found in his possession. The arrest occurred at the Ibadan Toll Gate end of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway during a stop-and-search operation.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso, announced the development in a statement posted on the Command’s verified X handle on Thursday.
According to Osifeso, Basiru was apprehended while traveling in an Ibadan-bound Lagos commercial bus with registration number XA 561 IRG. The suspicious items discovered during the operation have since been transferred to the homicide section of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Iyaganku, for further investigation.
“Forensic analysis will be carried out on the seized item to determine its true content,” Osifeso added.
Abandoned Vehicle Recovered
In a related operation, police operatives recovered a Toyota Camry that was abandoned by its driver during a routine search. The driver reportedly fled the scene upon being flagged down by officers.
“The car has been taken into custody by the Command. Members of the public with legitimate claims to the vehicle are urged to come forward with verifiable documents or contact the Oyo State Police Command,” the spokesman stated.
Osifeso emphasized that the ongoing stop-and-search operations were not exaggerated security theatrics, but deliberate efforts to maintain law and order as well as ensure the safety of residents and travelers across Oyo State.