By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Anambra State Government has dismantled a notorious baby factory syndicate operating under the name Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity which has been masquerading as a hospital in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The Illegal facility, located at No. 1 School Road, near Tansian University was unmasked after months of surveillance and intelligence gathering, with the state government working in close collaboration with security agencies.

The team of security stormed the premises with officials of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade) and arrested key members of the criminal network.

The hospital was found to be operating with a falsified license and was owned by a self-proclaimed medical doctor, Mr. Odili Ossai, a native of Delta State.

Authorities have confirmed that the syndicate was involved in the trafficking and exploitation of young girls, aged 15, 19, and 21. Many of the victims were reportedly held against their will and forced into pregnancies, with newborns sold into illegal adoption rings.

During the raid, several teenage girls and infants were rescued during the raid and are now receiving comprehensive medical care and psychological support.

The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, while addressing journalists on the issue in Awka, described the crackdown as a significant victory in the ongoing battle against child trafficking, human rights violations, and gender-based abuse.

He harped on the state’s unwavering commitment to shutting down all illegal medical establishments and safeguarding public health.

Obidike said: “This operation underscores the importance of collaboration between security agencies and health regulators. We are determined to rid Anambra State of fake medical practitioners and criminal networks that exploit the vulnerable.”

The Commissioner further highlighted the role of the State Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit (SHFAMU) and the State Illegal and Anti-Quackery Taskforce Team, established to identify and eliminate unauthorized health facilities across the state.

He called on the public to support the government’s efforts by reporting suspicious activities related to healthcare practices and also urged residents to use the following dedicated hotlines whenever needed be.