The Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested a self-acclaimed doctor, Sunday Okon Akpan, after a botched abortion at his clinic allegedly led to the death of a 35-year-old woman.
The suspect, who runs the so-called Full Life Medical Centre in Ikot Obio Odong, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, was discovered to be a community health practitioner with no medical or nursing licence.
Police spokesperson DSP Timfon John, in a statement on Tuesday, said Akpan was apprehended on August 19 following a complaint by the deceased’s mother.
The victim, identified as Blessing Sunday Etim, reportedly died after undergoing an unsafe abortion at the facility.
According to the police, a neighbour of the deceased revealed that the suspect attempted to smuggle the corpse into her room to conceal the crime but fled when confronted.
Detectives later found evidence of a failed abortion, including a premature fetus discovered during inspection.
Further investigations showed that Akpan had been posing as a medical doctor, using the clinic to perform illegal procedures. The centre has since been deserted.
“The suspect, a resident of Afaha Offiong in Nsit Ibom LGA, is not a licensed doctor or nurse but a community health practitioner.
He used the facility to conduct unlawful medical services, including abortions,” DSP John stated.
The body of the deceased has been deposited at a morgue for autopsy.
The Commissioner of Police has ordered a thorough investigation to ensure justice, while further updates are expected as inquiries continue.