The Anambra State Government, in conjunction with various security agencies, has carried out another successful raid on a notorious illegal maternity home previously shut down earlier this year. The facility, deceptively operating under the name Mother and Child Hospital and Maternity, is located in Umunya, within Oyi Local Government Area. Authorities linked the illicit operation to a man identified as Odili Ossai, a self-proclaimed medical practitioner from Delta State.

This latest action, which unfolded over the weekend, follows extensive months-long surveillance efforts aimed at dismantling a human trafficking ring disguised as a healthcare service provider.

Second Raid Uncovers Continued Illegal Operations

The illegal facility had first come under scrutiny in February 2024, when a similar operation led to the rescue of six pregnant teenage girls. During that operation, officials determined that the facility’s license was forged, and its purported medical activities were a front for a deeply disturbing child trafficking enterprise.

Despite being shut down earlier this year and the primary suspect declared wanted, the criminal network appears to have resumed operations at the same location. This prompted a renewed crackdown based on intelligence gathered by state health officials and law enforcement agencies.

Speaking to the press following Saturday’s raid, Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, revealed that the follow-up operation was the culmination of detailed investigations and undercover monitoring.

Intelligence-Led Operation Results in Arrests

Dr. Obidike confirmed that the mission was carried out in close coordination with security personnel and the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra task force, commonly referred to as the OCHA Brigade. Together, the joint task team stormed the premises and apprehended several individuals believed to be central to the operation of the illegal baby factory.

“The facility, masquerading as a maternity hospital, was operating under fraudulent credentials,” Dr. Obidike stated. “It was owned by an individual claiming to be a doctor—Odili Ossai from Delta State—who is not registered with any recognized medical body.”

The commissioner described the facility as a hub for human exploitation, where vulnerable young girls were kept in captivity, impregnated, and forced to give birth. Their babies, in turn, were reportedly sold to illegal adoption networks both within and outside the state.

Young Girls Rescued, Receiving Medical and Psychological Aid

Authorities rescued multiple teenage girls from the premises during the raid, along with several infants. According to health officials, the girls ranged in age from 15 to 21 and were subjected to inhumane treatment, including forced confinement, sexual exploitation, and coercive pregnancies intended to supply babies for black market adoptions.

“These girls are victims of an organized crime syndicate,” Dr. Obidike said. “They were denied their freedom, forced into pregnancies, and stripped of their dignity. Their newborns were traded like commodities.”

Following their rescue, the victims were immediately transferred to government-run medical facilities where they are now receiving comprehensive health checks, counseling, and psychological support. Health authorities are also coordinating with social welfare departments to ensure the girls’ safety and long-term rehabilitation.

Suspects to Face Prosecution for Heinous Crimes

The Anambra State Government confirmed that suspects arrested during the operation are now in custody and will face a series of serious charges. These include offenses such as human trafficking, illegal confinement, operating an unlicensed medical facility, and child exploitation.

Dr. Obidike emphasized that investigations are ongoing, with additional suspects and accomplices being pursued. “The scope of this criminal operation is still unfolding,” he said. “We are committed to uncovering every layer of the network and ensuring that all those involved are held accountable.”

He further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and assist law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities, particularly those related to unauthorized healthcare centers or questionable maternity homes.

State Strengthens Oversight of Healthcare Providers

This recent operation forms part of a broader state-wide initiative aimed at sanitizing the health sector and rooting out unregistered or illegal medical institutions. The government has redoubled efforts to enforce strict monitoring through the Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit (HFAMU) and the Anti-Quackery Taskforce.

Both agencies have been given the mandate to conduct regular inspections, vet healthcare practitioners, and close any facility that fails to meet professional and regulatory standards. Dr. Obidike said the state will remain relentless in pursuing those who attempt to exploit healthcare cover to commit crimes.

“No person or organization will be allowed to operate under false pretenses to endanger the lives of residents,” he said. “We are implementing a zero-tolerance policy against medical quackery, human trafficking, and abuse.”

Public Cooperation Crucial in Tackling Illicit Medical Networks

Dr. Obidike called on communities across Anambra to actively participate in the crackdown on unauthorized medical centers and baby factories. He emphasized that the success of such operations depends heavily on credible information from the public.

“Illegal operations like these thrive on silence and fear. We urge residents not to turn a blind eye. If you see something, say something,” he stated.

He warned that any unlicensed medical establishment found to be violating state regulations or engaging in human rights violations will be sealed off permanently and their operators prosecuted.

“The government will not compromise on the safety, dignity, or well-being of its citizens—especially women, children, and other vulnerable groups,” the commissioner added.

A Wake-Up Call for the Nation

The resurgence of a baby factory just months after a previous shutdown underscores the complexity and persistence of human trafficking syndicates operating under various guises in Nigeria. Despite crackdowns, the criminal underworld continues to adapt, making long-term, community-based vigilance essential.

Experts argue that a multi-pronged approach—including improved social welfare systems, better youth outreach programs, and stricter border controls—is needed to break the cycle of trafficking and exploitation.

For Anambra State, this latest operation is not just a win in the fight against child trafficking, but also a stark reminder of the work that remains to protect the most vulnerable. As the government vows to intensify its crackdown on illegal health facilities and trafficking networks, residents are being called upon to stand united in the campaign to reclaim safety, dignity, and justice for all.