Loading ...NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE โ A joint security operation led by the leadership of Otolo Nnewi and the Agunaechemba Otolo Central Unit (popularly known as the Udogachi Boys) has busted a sophisticated criminal syndicate operating an unhygienic slaughter and processing camp within the industrial hub.
The syndicate is accused of processing donkey skins preserved with highly toxic chemicals and distributing them to local markets across Nnewi and neighbouring communities as “kpomo” (cow skin) for human consumption.
The Raid and Public Health Scare
Acting on actionable intelligence regarding suspicious movements and an overpowering stench, the Agunaechemba security operatives simultaneously stormed two hidden locations in Otolo Nnewi.
The processing site was described by eyewitnesses as extremely filthy and completely unfit for food preparation. Operatives discovered massive quantities of donkey hides being treated with industrial chemicals to alter their appearance and texture, mimicking standard consumer-grade animal skin.
Medical experts warn that consuming meats or skins processed with unapproved chemical preservatives poses severe risks of acute food poisoning, organ failure, and long-term carcinogenic effects.
Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Network Unmasked
Beyond the immediate food safety violations, the security raid exposed a deeply entrenched human trafficking ring. Several individuals were arrested at the scene, including adults, breastfeeding mothers, and minors.
Interrogations of the rescued underage children revealed a cross-state trafficking pipeline. The minors confessed that they were systematically “imported” from the Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State to Nnewi. Their sole purpose was to hawk the toxic, chemically altered meat on the streets of Nnewi and transport it as far as Igbo-Ukwu.
Primary Suspects At Large
Local security sources have identified the alleged masterminds of the illicit operation as Chief Ezekiel Anyigor and an accomplice identified simply as Mr. Simon, both indigenes of Ikwo, Ebonyi State. Both prime suspects managed to evade arrest during the initial dragnet and are currently at large.
The arrested workers and recovered evidence have been documented, and local authorities are preparing to hand the case file over to the Anambra State Police Command and the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for comprehensive prosecution.
