The Anambra State Government has arrested a 47-year-old woman, Onyinyechi Charles, for allegedly operating an illegal maternity centre where unauthorised surgeries, including caesarean sections, were reportedly carried out.
Charles, who is from Abia State, was arrested at the facility located in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area, during an operation by officials of the Ministry of Health.
The raid followed an investigation launched by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, as part of the state’s efforts to eliminate illegal medical practices and safeguard public health.
During the inspection on Sunday, health officials, accompanied by the Chairman of Anambra East Local Government Area, Ifeanyi Chinweze, and security operatives, recovered surgical instruments, hospital beds and other medical equipment allegedly used for the procedures.
The team also discovered what appeared to be a shrine and an altar within the premises.
Describing the discovery as alarming, Obidike said the government would not tolerate unqualified individuals putting residents’ lives at risk under the guise of healthcare.
He advised residents, particularly pregnant women, to seek treatment only from licensed hospitals and qualified healthcare providers.
“The Ministry of Health will sustain its surveillance and enforcement operations across the state to identify and prosecute illegal medical practitioners.
“The state government remains committed to sanitising the health sector and ensuring that only licensed and qualified healthcare professionals provide medical and surgical services in the state.
“What was found at that illegal facility is disturbing and a serious threat to public health. The state government will not allow unqualified individuals to endanger the lives of residents under the guise of providing healthcare. Anyone found violating the law will face the full weight of legal sanctions.
“The premises have been sealed pending the outcome of legal proceedings, while the suspect will be arraigned before a competent court.”
