Anambra Government has shut a suspected baby factory disguised as a hospital in Umunya.
Fifteen arrests were made, and young pregnant girls were rescued during the sting operation.
The Anambra State Government has dismantled a suspected baby factory operating under the guise of a hospital in Umunya, located in Oyi Local Government Area. The facility, which bore the name “Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity,” was exposed during a coordinated sting operation targeting illegal medical practices and human trafficking in the state.
The discovery was made following several months of surveillance and intelligence gathering by the state’s Ministry of Health, supported by security agencies. The facility, situated at 1 School Road near Tansian University, was sealed off on Saturday. The operation had begun a day earlier and culminated in a full-scale raid that uncovered disturbing practices.
During the raid, government officials and law enforcement officers arrested 15 individuals, including key staff members, operatives, and five pregnant young women. Preliminary investigations revealed that the so-called hospital was operating without a valid license and was involved in multiple acts of medical malpractice. Further inquiries confirmed that the supposed owner of the facility was a man who falsely claimed to be a qualified medical doctor and hailed from Delta State.
According to the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, the illegal establishment was exploiting vulnerable young girls, many of whom were reportedly aged between 15 and 21. These girls were allegedly lured to the facility under false pretenses, held against their will, and forced into pregnancy. Their newborn babies were then trafficked or sold through illegal adoption networks.
Speaking after the operation, the Health Commissioner described the incident as a serious violation of human rights and a grave threat to public health and safety. He emphasized that the raid marks a major breakthrough in the fight against child trafficking and gender-based violence in the state.
“This crackdown is a significant victory in the ongoing battle against human trafficking, illegal medical operations, and abuse of young women. It also reinforces our commitment to protecting the rights of the most vulnerable members of our society,” he stated.
The state government has pledged to continue the clampdown on unregistered hospitals and clinics operating within its territory. Authorities say investigations are ongoing and that those found guilty will face the full weight of the law. The rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention and psychosocial support as efforts continue to reunite them with their families and rehabilitate them.
