The Anambra State Government has arrested a 47-year-old woman, Mrs. Onyinyechi Esther Charles, over allegations of operating an illegal maternity home where she reportedly carried out caesarean sections and other surgical procedures without the required medical qualifications.

The suspect, an indigene of Abia State married to a man from Nteje in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, allegedly ran a traditional birth attendant (TBA) facility in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area.

Authorities alleged that she performed caesarean sections, normal vaginal deliveries and other surgical procedures despite lacking the necessary medical training and licence. The facility has also been linked to reported cases of medical complications and fatalities.

The Anambra State Ministry of Health said the arrest followed investigations ordered by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, as part of the government’s campaign against illegal medical practice and efforts to safeguard public health.

According to the ministry, Mrs. Charles admitted during interrogation that she had been conducting caesarean sections, normal deliveries and other surgical operations without legal authorisation or professional qualifications.

She also allegedly disclosed that she was formerly known as “Eze Nwanyi” before becoming a church minister and later presenting herself as a surgeon.

During an inspection of the facility, Dr. Obidike, accompanied by the Mayor of Anambra East Local Government Area, Mr. Ifeanyi Chinweze, and security operatives, reportedly recovered surgical instruments and other medical equipment suspected to have been used for the unauthorised procedures.

Officials also discovered hospital beds used for treating patients as well as what appeared to be a shrine and an altar within the premises.

The government said the facility has been sealed and confiscated pending the outcome of legal proceedings, while the suspect is expected to be arraigned before a competent court.

Speaking during the inspection, Obidike described the discovery as disturbing and a serious threat to public health.

He said the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo would not tolerate unqualified individuals endangering lives under the guise of providing healthcare.

The commissioner urged expectant mothers and other patients to seek treatment only at government-approved hospitals and registered healthcare facilities, warning residents against patronising unlicensed operators.

He added that the Ministry of Health would sustain surveillance and enforcement operations across the state to identify and prosecute illegal medical practitioners.

“The government remains committed to sanitising the health sector and ensuring that only licensed and qualified healthcare professionals provide medical and surgical services in Anambra. Anyone found violating the law will face the full weight of legal sanctions,” he said.

Also speaking, Chinweze commended the Ministry of Health and security agencies for uncovering the alleged illegal operation.

He assured residents that the local government would continue to support efforts aimed at eliminating quackery and other unlawful practices that threaten lives, while urging members of the public to report suspected illegal health facilities and patronise only accredited hospitals and qualified healthcare professionals.