The Anambra State Government in conjunction with security operatives on Wednesday rescued six pregnant teenagers as they raided a ‘baby factory’ facility at Umunya in Oyi Local Government Area of the state.
According to The PUNCH, this was made known by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike while speaking with newsmen on Wednesday.
Obidike explained that after the raid that the ‘baby factory’ where the babies were being sold had the name, ‘Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity located on a road along the Tansian University, Umunya.
He noted that the state’s Health Facility, Accreditation and Monitoring Unit arrived at the facility for its routine inspection when it made the discovery.
He stated further that the medical attendants working in the facility locked up the place and ran away after they requested to see the doctor on duty to find out why the facility was not registered with the state government.
He said, “Security operatives including OCHA-Brigade, Civil Defence Corps and the Police later assisted the monitoring team in gaining access into the facility.
“When we gained access to the facility, what we saw was shocking. We discovered six underaged pregnant girls, between ages 14, 15, 16, 17 and 21 years, allegedly camped against their wishes.
“We interviewed these girls and they told us that they were being camped by one self-acclaimed doctor, who they identified as Mr Odili Ossai from Delta State, now at large.
“They said when they deliver the babies, the operator of the facility, will sell the babies.
“Five persons have been arrested in connection with the ‘factory’ and the police will carry out further investigation.”
Obidike enjoined residents to report any illegal activities, malpractices or concerns related to healthcare services in the state.
He restated the commitment of the State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to get rid of fake and quack hospitals across the state.
