Rivers State Shuts Down Hospitals Over Child Trafficking

The Rivers State government has shut down five hospitals and arrested seven suspects in connection with child trafficking and illegal medical practices. This action was taken after a discreet investigation by the Rivers State Anti-Quackery Committee, supported by security agencies, revealed that unqualified individuals were performing surgeries and administering treatments without the necessary qualifications or licenses.

Dr. Vincent Wachukwu, the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Health, disclosed this during a press briefing in Port Harcourt. One notable case involved El Dona Hospital in Elekahia, where the proprietor allegedly deceived mothers into believing their babies were exchanged for deceased infants, subsequently selling live babies.

Other facilities shut down include Plariv Hospital in Omoku and Good Shepherd Hospital in Port Harcourt. The investigation also led to the sealing of a patent medicine store linked to the death of a 20-year-old girl due to unauthorized injections.

The government has vowed to support law enforcement in prosecuting the suspects involved.