By Njoh Linda
Police in Santa Subdivision have arrested 25-year-old Mbuh Teforlack, a native of Awing village, for allegedly stealing human bones from graves in what authorities describe as a disturbing and growing criminal trend.
The arrest comes after weeks of tension and outrage among residents of Santa, following multiple reports of graves being tampered with and skeletal remains mysteriously disappearing across several communities.
According to local security officials, Mbuh was apprehended earlier Thursday, July 31, during a covert operation after surveillance and intelligence led police to a suspected grave site.
He was caught digging up a recently buried grave, his alleged accomplice, believed to be the middleman in the illegal operation, managed to flee the scene and is currently on the run.
During police interrogation, the suspect confessed to being part of a larger network involved in the illicit trade of human remains.
He admitted that this was his second grave-robbing attempt in Santa but disclosed that he had committed similar acts in Buea, South West Region.
He claimed the bones are used in the production of “Kayu”, a street drug with reported hallucinogenic properties.
The Superintendent of Police in Santa, speaking to reporters, confirmed that the grave targeted by the suspect was that of an individual buried in 2023.
Shockingly, the suspect is said to have been present at the burial, raising further questions about how closely connected he may have been to the deceased or their family.
“This is not the first time we are dealing with such a case,” the Superintendent warned.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity around burial grounds.”
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the community, with many calling for stricter surveillance of cemeteries and harsher penalties for those involved in such gruesome crimes.
Investigations are ongoing, and a manhunt has been launched to locate other members of the suspected bone-trafficking ring.
Meanwhile, Mbuh Teforlack remains in custody, awaiting formal charges.
