The Anambra State Government has shut down a notorious baby factory operating under the guise of a hospital in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area.xn
The illegal operation was uncovered following a sting operation targeting human trafficking and unlicensed medical practices.
The facility, known as “Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity,” located at 1 School Road, near Tansian University, was sealed off on Saturday.
This action followed months of surveillance and intelligence gathering by the state’s Ministry of Health in partnership with security agencies.
During the raid, officials arrested several staff members and operatives of the facility. Among those apprehended were five pregnant women and ten others. Authorities discovered the hospital was engaged in gross medical malpractice and operating with a falsified license.
Speaking to journalists after the operation, Commissioner for Health Dr. Afam Obidike revealed that the establishment was run by a self-proclaimed doctor from Delta State.
The facility was allegedly involved in the trafficking and exploitation of young girls aged between 15 and 21.
Many victims were reportedly held against their will, forced into pregnancy, and their babies sold into illegal adoption networks.
“This crackdown marks a major milestone in our fight against child trafficking, human rights violations, and gender-based violence,” Dr. Obidike stated. “We are resolute in our mission to close all unauthorized medical facilities and protect the health and dignity of our citizens.”
He emphasized the importance of cooperation between security agencies and health regulators and praised the efforts of the State Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit alongside the State Illegal and Anti-Quackery Taskforce Team.
Dr. Obidike urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious healthcare activities. He also warned operators of unlicensed clinics to shut down immediately or face prosecution.
“A full-scale investigation has commenced, and those arrested will be charged with human trafficking, unlawful detention, and child exploitation,” he added.
The Acting Director of Medical Services, Dr. Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, and other members of the health ministry were also present during the operation.
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Several teenage girls and infants rescued from the facility are currently receiving medical attention and psychological support.
