The Cross River State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding an alleged unauthorised hernia surgery performed on a 60-year-old man identified as Ukpan at a private clinic in Ekori, Yakurr Local Government Area.
The investigation followed reports that the patient developed complications after undergoing the procedure.
Preliminary findings showed that the patient underwent the surgery on September 8 and was discharged the same day. However, on September 11, at about 4 p.m., he was reportedly taken to Ugep General Hospital by 33-year-old Bassey Otu Bassey after complications allegedly developed.
At the hospital, members of the patient’s family reportedly attempted to mob Bassey after questioning his professional status and alleged involvement in the procedure. Police officers intervened, prevented the mob action and took him into protective custody at the Ugep Police Division.
During preliminary questioning, Bassey reportedly claimed that he was a theatre assistant who performed the procedure in the absence of his principal.
Confirming the incident, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, said the police were working to verify the suspect’s professional status and qualifications, as well as the circumstances surrounding the procedure.
He added that the command was also investigating the nature and cause of the patient’s complications and whether they were connected to the surgery.
Akata stressed that no conclusion had been reached regarding criminal liability or the cause of the patient’s condition, pending the outcome of the investigation and relevant medical and professional assessments.
The police spokesperson urged members of the public to refrain from mob action and jungle justice, assuring that anyone found culpable based on credible evidence would be made to face the law.
