The Anambra State Government has sealed off a notorious baby factory operating under the guise of a hospital in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area of the state.
The illegal facility, named “Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity”, located at 1 School Road near Tansian University, was shut down on Saturday in a coordinated sting operation following months of surveillance and intelligence gathering.
The raid, led by officials from the Anambra State Ministry of Health in collaboration with security agencies, resulted in the arrest of key staff and operatives of the facility. Among those apprehended were five pregnant women and ten other individuals, found within the premises during the crackdown that began on Friday.
Addressing journalists after the operation, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, disclosed that the so-called hospital was operating with a forged license and was run by a self-acclaimed doctor from Delta State.
Dr. Obidike revealed that the illegal centre was deeply involved in human trafficking and exploitation of young girls, aged between 15 and 21, many of whom were allegedly detained against their will and forced into pregnancies. The newborns were then trafficked through illegal adoption rings.
“This crackdown is a significant victory in the ongoing battle against child trafficking, human rights violations, and gender-based abuse,” Obidike said.
He added that the state government is resolute in its mission to shut down all illegal medical establishments and protect the health and dignity of residents.
The commissioner commended the efforts of the State Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit and the Illegal and Anti-Quackery Taskforce Team, both established to eliminate unauthorized health facilities across the state.
“We are determined to rid Anambra State of fake medical practitioners and criminal networks that exploit the vulnerable,” Obidike stated.
He urged members of the public to support the government’s efforts by reporting suspicious healthcare practices or unlicensed medical operations.
A full-scale investigation into the case has been launched, and the suspects are expected to face charges bordering on human trafficking, unlawful detention, and child exploitation.
Also present during the raid was the Acting Director of Medical Services, Dr. Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, alongside other top officials from the health ministry.
The rescued teenage girls and infants are currently receiving comprehensive medical attention and psychological support to aid their recovery.
“We are issuing a stern warning to all operators of illegal health facilities across Anambra. Shut down now or face the full weight of the law,” Obidike concluded.