Authorities in Akwa Ibom State have apprehended a man posing as a medical doctor following the death of a 35-year-old woman during an alleged illegal abortion procedure.
The suspect, Sunday Okon Akpan, who operates the Full Life Medical Centre in Ikot Obio Odong, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, was arrested on Tuesday, August 19, after a disturbing report was filed by the victim’s mother.
According to a statement released by DSP Timfon John, spokesperson for the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, the deceased, identified as Blessing Sunday Etim, had gone to work at the facility before the tragic incident occurred.
“Tuesday, 19 August, at 0930 hours, a man was arrested on suspicion of conducting an illegal abortion that resulted in the death of a 35-year-old woman,” the statement read.
A co-tenant reportedly witnessed Akpan attempting to secretly dispose of the victim’s body by entering her room. When confronted, he abandoned the corpse and fled.
Detectives arriving at the scene observed a premature fetus emerging from the victim’s body, further confirming suspicions of a botched abortion.
Investigations revealed that Akpan, a resident of Afaha Offiong in Nsit Ibom LGA, is not a licensed medical doctor or nurse, but a community health practitioner.
Police believe he had been using the facility to conduct unauthorized medical procedures, including abortions.
The Full Life Medical Centre has since been deserted, and the victim’s body has been deposited at a morgue for autopsy.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and further details will be made available as they emerge.
