The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 33-year-old theatre assistant over an alleged unauthorised hernia operation on a 60-year-old man at a private clinic in Ekori, Yakurr Local Government Area.
The patient, identified as Ukpan, reportedly developed complications after the procedure on September 8 and was discharged from the clinic the same day.
Police spokesperson, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, said the patient was later taken to Ugep General Hospital on September 11 by Bassey Otu Bassey, 33, after his condition reportedly worsened.
According to the command, members of the patient’s family confronted Bassey at the hospital around 9pm and allegedly attempted to attack him over concerns about his professional qualifications and alleged role in the surgery.
Police officers intervened and took Bassey to the Ugep Police Division for protection and further questioning.
The suspect allegedly told investigators that he worked as a theatre assistant and carried out the procedure while his principal was absent.
Police said they are investigating Bassey’s professional status and qualifications, as well as the circumstances surrounding the operation.
The command is also examining the patient’s medical complications to establish their nature and determine whether they were linked to the procedure.
Akata said the investigation had not established criminal liability or the cause of the patient’s condition, stressing that conclusions would depend on credible evidence and relevant medical and professional findings.
The police also warned against mob action, urging members of the public to allow investigators to establish the facts and promising legal action against anyone found culpable.
Police arrest theatre assistant over alleged unauthorised surgery in Cross River
