Oyo Police Arrest Two Suspected of Exhuming Human Skull from Muslim Cemetery

Oyo Police Arrest Two Suspected of Exhuming Human Skull from Muslim Cemetery

The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspects over the unlawful possession of an item suspected to be a human skull following a joint security operation in Ijio, Oyo State, on July 9, 2026. The arrests were made after credible intelligence pointed to a person allegedly in possession of the suspected skull, prompting swift action by law enforcement agencies. The operation, led by the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, involved collaboration between police operatives and the Oyo State Security Network Agency, commonly known as Amotekun Corps.

One of the suspects, Shittu Isah, a resident of Kajola Area in Ijio, was apprehended during the operation. Alongside him, the suspected human skull was recovered and secured as evidence. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Shittu confessed during interrogation that he had exhumed the skull from a Muslim burial ground in the same area. He also admitted to acting with another individual, leading to the arrest of Tunde Ajibade, who is now assisting police with ongoing investigations.

The recovered item has been preserved for forensic examination to confirm its origin and nature. Authorities are working to determine the motive behind the exhumation and to identify any other persons who may have been involved in the incident. The police emphasized that the act constitutes a serious breach of both criminal and religious laws, and they are treating the case with the utmost seriousness.

In a statement, the Oyo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state. They urged residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to security agencies promptly. The command stressed that timely and credible information from the public is crucial in preventing and solving crimes. The incident has raised concerns among local communities, particularly regarding the sanctity of burial sites and the need for increased security in rural areas.

The investigation remains active, with forensic experts expected to provide critical insights into the case. The police are also reviewing surveillance footage and conducting door-to-door inquiries in the area. This development underscores the importance of community cooperation in maintaining peace and order. As the case unfolds, authorities are expected to release further updates, while the public is reminded to respect cultural and religious boundaries. The arrest serves as a warning to those who may consider violating the sanctity of burial grounds, reinforcing the state’s zero-tolerance policy on such criminal acts.