The Anambra State Government has uncovered and shut down an illegal baby factory operating under the guise of a hospital in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area, rescuing five pregnant teenagers and 10 others from the facility.
Nigeria Health Times gathered that the unregistered centre, known as Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity, located at No. 1 School Road, near Tansian University, was sealed on Saturday following a raid that began on Friday after months of surveillance and intelligence gathering by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with security operatives.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, who led the operation, described the raid as a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing clampdown on quackery, child trafficking, and gender-based violence.
“This so-called hospital was nothing more than a criminal den,” he said. “It was operating under a forged license and run by a self-acclaimed doctor from Delta State.”
Obidike disclosed that the syndicate engaged young men to impregnate teenage girls, aged between 15 and 21, many of whom were reportedly held against their will. The babies born from the forced pregnancies were allegedly sold through illegal adoption rings.
He said five pregnant teenagers and 10 others, including infants, were rescued and are now under the care of the government, receiving medical attention and psychological support.
“This crackdown is a major victory in the fight against human trafficking and exploitation,” he said. “The Anambra State Government is determined to eliminate illegal medical establishments that threaten public health and human dignity.”
The Commissioner attributed the success of the operation to the vigilance of the State Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit and the State Illegal and Anti-Quackery Taskforce, both of which were established to identify and eliminate unregistered health facilities.
He issued a strong warning to operators of unlicensed and quack facilities across the state.
“We will not tolerate criminal activities disguised as healthcare delivery,” Obidike said. “We are giving an ultimatum to all unregistered operators, shut down or face the full wrath of the law.”
The acting Director of Medical Services, Dr. Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, also took part in the raid.
Authorities say a full-scale investigation has been launched, and the suspects will face charges bordering on human trafficking, unlawful detention, and child exploitation.
Residents have been urged to support the government’s efforts by reporting suspicious health-related activities in their communities.