By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two men over the alleged exhumation of a freshly buried corpse and theft of its casket at Mbiokporo Cemetery in Uyo.The State Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement, saying the arrests followed a report by a member of the public who noticed two men moving a casket on an unregistered motorcycle at night.
According to the police, one suspect, Nsikak Effiong, was apprehended at the scene, while another, Effiong Asuquo, allegedly fled.The Command said Effiong allegedly told investigators that he and Asuquo had removed a corpse from the casket before taking it away. Police said the empty casket and motorcycle were recovered.
The Command later arrested Elijah Matthew Edet, manager of Mbiokporo Cemetery, on August 5. Police said Edet allegedly admitted to conspiring with grave diggers in the incident. The police said investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged offence and identify other persons who may have been involved.
Commissioner of Police Baba Azare condemned the incident and directed investigators to ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with the law. The Command also commended the member of the public who reported the suspicious activity and urged residents to continue providing information to security agencies.
