The Anambra State Government has successfully dismantled and shut down a notorious baby factory syndicate masquerading as a hospital in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area of the state. The illegal facility, known as “Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity,” was located at 1 School Road, near Tansian University, Umunya, and was sealed on Saturday after a raid that began on Friday. According to the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, the facility was operating with a falsified license and was owned by a self-proclaimed medical doctor from Delta State.
During the raid, key staff and operatives of the facility, including five pregnant women and 10 other persons, were arrested after it was discovered that the facility was being used for “medical malpractices.” Obidike confirmed that the syndicate was involved in the trafficking and exploitation of young girls, aged between 15 and 21, who were reportedly held against their will and forced into pregnancies, with newborns sold into illegal adoption rings. The rescued teenage girls and infants are now receiving comprehensive medical care and psychological support.
The commissioner described the crackdown as “a significant victory in the ongoing battle against child trafficking, human rights violations, and gender-based abuse.” He emphasized the government’s commitment to shutting down all illegal medical establishments and safeguarding public health. Obidike also highlighted the importance of collaboration between security agencies and health regulators in ridding Anambra State of fake medical practitioners and criminal networks that exploit the vulnerable.
The State Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit and the State Illegal and Anti-Quackery Taskforce Team played a crucial role in identifying and eliminating unauthorized health facilities across Anambra. Obidike urged the public to support the government’s efforts by reporting suspicious activities related to healthcare practices. Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation, and suspects are expected to face charges including human trafficking, unlawful detention, and child exploitation.
The Anambra State Government has issued a stern warning to operators of unlicensed and quack facilities in the state, urging them to shut down immediately or face the full weight of the law. The government is determined to protect the safety and dignity of its people, and this crackdown marks a significant step in that direction.
