How theatre assistant performed surgery in Cross River; nabbed

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Stock image.

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The Police command in Cross River has arrested a theatre assistant over an alleged unauthorised hernia surgery performed on a 60-year-old man at a private clinic in Ekori, Yakurr LGA.

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The command said the patient, whose name was withheld, developed complications after undergoing the procedure on September 8 and was discharged the same day.

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The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday in Calabar.

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Eitokpah said the patient was taken to Ugep General Hospital by 33-year-old Bassey Bassey at about 4 p.m. on September 11.

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He said the patient was taken there following reported complications arising after the procedure at the private clinic.

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According to him, members of the patient’s family allegedly attempted to mob Bassey at about 9 p.m. while at the hospital.

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Eitokpah said the family members raised concerns about Bassey’s professional status and alleged involvement in the procedure.

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He said police officers promptly intervened, prevented the mob action and took Bassey into protective custody at Ugep Police Division.

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

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“The Police are currently verifying his professional status and qualifications, as well as the circumstances under which the procedure was conducted,” Eitokpah added.

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He said the command was also investigating the nature and cause of the patient’s complications.

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According to him, investigators are examining whether the complications were connected to the hernia procedure.

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The PPRO stressed that no conclusion had been reached on criminal liability or the cause of the patient’s condition.

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He said the command would await the outcome of investigations and relevant medical and professional findings before determining the next course of action.

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Eitokpah urged members of the public to desist from mob action and jungle justice, regardless of the circumstances.

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He assured that anyone found culpable based on credible evidence would be made to face the law.

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The PPRO said further developments would be communicated as the investigation progressed.

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