The Enugu State Government has ordered the arrest and demolition of a property belonging to a native doctor from Ezeagu community after the discovery of a mass grave containing human remains on his premises.
According to reports from local sources, residents of Ezeagu community made the gruesome discovery when what appeared to be a soakaway pit on the property was revealed to contain decomposing bodies of numerous victims, including pregnant women. Witnesses claim the victims were buried alive as part of ritual sacrifices allegedly performed for wealth acquisition.
Before authorities could intervene, enraged community members had already taken matters into their own hands. The suspect's residence was reportedly set ablaze while he was stripped, beaten, and paraded through the village streets in a public display of community justice.
Wealth Built on Blood
The accused, who had been locally celebrated as a wealthy individual, was known for his flamboyant lifestyle and generous cash displays at social gatherings. Community members expressed shock at the revelation, as the suspect had successfully maintained a facade of legitimate prosperity while allegedly engaging in heinous crimes.
"He was always seen at parties throwing money around and people respected him as a 'big man' in the community," said a local resident who requested anonymity. "Nobody suspected the source of his wealth could be something so evil."
The state government's swift response in ordering both the arrest of the suspect and demolition of the property signals a strong stance against ritual killings, which have periodically plagued parts of southeastern Nigeria.
Law enforcement officials have cordoned off the area as investigations continue into what may be one of the most disturbing ritual killing cases in the region's recent history. Authorities are working to identify the victims and determine the full extent of the crimes committed.
This case has reignited concerns about ritual killings in Nigeria, where periodic reports of such practices emerge despite educational campaigns and legal consequences. Community leaders have called for increased vigilance and reporting of suspicious activities to prevent similar occurrences.
The Enugu State Police Command is expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.