Cross River police arrest theatre assistant over unauthorised hernia surgery

Men of the Cross River State Police Command have commenced investigation into the circumstances surrounding an alleged unauthorized hernia surgery performed a 60-year-old man simply identified as Ukpan at a private clinic in Ekori, Yakurr Local Government Area, after the patient reportedly developed complications following the procedure.

Preliminary investigation showed that the patient underwent the procedure on September 8 and was discharged the same day. However, on September, 11, at about 4pm, the patient was reportedly taken to Ugep General Hospital by Bassey Otu Bassey, ‘M’, 33 years, following reported complications.

While at the hospital at about 9pm members of the patient’s family allegedly attempted to mob Bassey Otu Bassey after raising concerns about his professional status and involvement in the procedure. Police officers promptly intervened, prevented the mob action and took him into protective custody at Ugep Police Division.

During preliminary questioning, the suspect reportedly stated that he is a theatre assistant who undertook the procedure in the absence of his principal.

Confirming the incident to newsmen, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, said efforts are being made to verify the suspect’s professional status and qualifications, as well as the circumstances under which the procedure was conducted.

He mentioned that the command is also investigating the nature and cause of the patient’s complications and whether they are connected to the procedure.

He mentioned that no conclusion has been reached regarding criminal liability or the cause of the patient’s condition, pending the outcome of the investigation and relevant medical and professional findings.

He urged members of the public to desist from mob action and jungle justice, assuring that any person found culpable based on credible evidence will be made to face the law.