ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- A 37-year-old woman suspected of posing as a nurse to secretly film newborn babies at a hospital in Anambra State has been rescued from an angry mob as police launch an investigation into a suspected child trafficking syndicate operating in the state.
The Anambra State Police Command said the suspect, identified as Anurika Nweme, was intercepted by operatives attached to the Awada Divisional Headquarters at Divine Mercy Hospital in the Awada area of Obosi following reports of her suspicious activities within the facility.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said eyewitnesses alleged that the woman infiltrated the hospital on June 23, 2026, dressed in clothing resembling that of a nurse and gained access to the maternity ward.
According to him, the suspect was observed secretly recording videos of newborn babies inside the ward, raising concerns among hospital staff and other persons present.
“According to eyewitness accounts, the suspect on the afternoon of 23rd June 2026 allegedly gained access to the hospital premises disguised in attire resembling that of a nurse and was observed making secret video recordings of newborn babies in the maternity ward.
“When questioned by hospital staff and other persons present, she reportedly claimed to be an employee of the hospital. However, upon verification, the management of the Hospital confirmed that she was not a member of its staff,” Ikenga stated.
The police spokesperson said tensions quickly escalated after her identity claim was found to be false, prompting an angry crowd to descend on her before officers intervened and rescued her from possible mob action.
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Ikenga disclosed that the suspect has since been placed in protective custody while investigators carry out administrative profiling and further inquiries into the matter.
He added that the police are treating the case as a serious matter and are working to uncover possible links to a wider child trafficking operation.
“The suspect is currently in protective custody and assisting the investigating police officers in identifying others involved.
“Further developments on the investigation will be communicated as they unfold,” the statement added.
The incident comes amid intensified efforts by security agencies and state governments across the country to combat child trafficking and illegal adoption networks.
Recently, operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command intercepted a bus conveying three missing children and arrested two suspected child traffickers in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
Similarly, the Rivers State Government shut down five hospitals and a patent medicine store following investigations into allegations of child trafficking, illegal medical practices and related offences.
Seven suspects, including some operators of the affected facilities, were arrested during the operation.
Police said investigations into the Anambra case are ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying and apprehending other persons who may be connected to the suspected trafficking network.