Anambra State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, made a significant breakthrough on Wednesday by dismantling a suspected baby factory near a university in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area of the state. The operation resulted in the rescue of six pregnant teenagers from what appeared to be a clandestine operation.
Dr. Afam Obidike, the state’s Commissioner for Health, revealed that the facility, operating under the guise of a maternity hospital named ‘Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity’, was flagged during a routine inspection by the state’s Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit.
Obidike recounted that upon arrival at the facility for inspection, nurses attempted to evade scrutiny by locking up the premises and fleeing. Security personnel, including the OCHA-Brigade, Civil Defence Corps, and the Police, intervened to gain access to the premises.
Inside the facility, authorities were shocked to find six underage pregnant girls, aged between 14 and 21, allegedly held against their will. The girls disclosed that they were being housed by a self-proclaimed doctor identified as Mr. Odili Ossai from Delta State, who remains at large. They further revealed that Mr. Ossai intended to sell the babies once delivered.
Five individuals have been apprehended in connection with the alleged baby factory, and further investigations are underway by the police.
Obidike reiterated the commitment of Governor Charles Soludo’s administration to eradicating fake and unlicensed medical facilities across the state. He highlighted the establishment of the state’s Illegal and Anti-Quackery Taskforce Team to address such issues and improve healthcare quality.
Residents were encouraged to report any illegal activities or concerns related to healthcare services, with the assurance that the state is dedicated to upholding ethical healthcare practices.
Dr. Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, Director of Medical Services, issued a stern warning to other fake and unlicensed medical practitioners operating in the state, emphasizing that they will face legal consequences if caught.