The NYPD is investigating the death of a man who was found dismembered in a Lower East Side apartment building.
According to police, at around 3:30 p.m. on July 14, police responded to a call of a past assault at 265 East Houston St. Upon their arrival, officers and EMS found a dismembered body of 33-year-old Fahim Saleh inside an apartment at the location.
A spokesperson from the NYPD stated that the victim’s torso was found in the living room near some bags. According to Sergeant Carlos Nieves, who was at the scene, the victim’s head, arms and legs were also removed at the scene.
Law enforcement sources said the victim’s sister apparently made the gruesome discovery and called 911.
Sources told amNewYork Metro that an electric saw was reportedly found near the body, however the NYPD could not immediately confirm if that’s the case.
According to Reuters, Saleh founded the Gokada motorbike hailing app that was popular in the Nigerian megacity of Lagos until state officials in February banned all motorcycle taxis, known locally as ‘okada’ and able to weave through traffic.
Gokada, funded by U.S and Gulf investment and venture capital funds, has one of the largest fleets of motorcycle hailing taxis in Nigeria. But the company, along with its competitors, fell foul of regulators in Lagos state.
Security camera video showed Saleh in the apartment building’s elevator with a man in a dark suit, mask and gloves, the media reports said. Video showed the masked man following Saleh into the apartment, where a struggle began.
At this time, it is not clear what the motive behind the incident was. The incident has since been ruled a homicide. The investigation is ongoing.
Additional reporting by Dean Moses, Paul Carsten and Daniel Trotta.
Updated at 2:05 p.m. on July 15. This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
