Six pregnant teens were rescued from a baby-making factory in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area, after a combined operation by the Anambra State Government and security personnel.
Dr. Afam Obidike, the Commissioner for Health, revealed to reporters following the raid that the facility, named “Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity,” operated in clandestine conditions at No 1, School Road, Tansian University in Umunya.
The revelation came to light during a routine inspection conducted by the state’s Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit. Upon arrival, the nurses on-site swiftly fled and locked the premises when questioned about the absence of proper registration with the state government.
Assistance from security operatives, including the OCHA-Brigade, Civil Defence Corps, and the Police, was instrumental in gaining access to the facility. Inside, a harrowing scene awaited them: six underage pregnant girls, aged between 14 and 21, were allegedly held against their will.
These girls revealed that they were being housed by a self-proclaimed doctor, identified as Mr. Odili Ossai from Delta State, who remains at large. They disclosed that upon delivery, the babies were intended for sale by Ossai, the proprietor of the illicit operation.
Five individuals have been apprehended in connection to the baby-making enterprise, with further investigations underway by the police.
Commissioner Obidike reiterated the commitment of Governor Charles Soludo’s administration to eradicating fake and unlicensed medical facilities across the state, ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
