A 37-year-old woman who claimed to be a nurse has reportedly escaped being lynched at Awada in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State after she allegedly attempted to steal a newborn baby at a private hospital in the area.
The woman was said to have dressed as a nurse and claimed to be a staff member of the hospital to gain access to the maternity ward. She was reportedly seen taking video recordings of newborn babies.
When it was discovered that she was not a staff member of the hospital, an angry crowd in the area descended on her.
It took the intervention of operatives of the Anambra State Police Command to rescue her from the mob and take her into protective custody.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said:
“The Anambra State Police Command has commenced an investigation into an alleged child trafficking incident following the rescue of a female suspect, Anurika Nweme, aged 37, from an angry mob by police operatives attached to Awada Divisional Headquarters at Divine Mercy Hospital, Eze Iweka Road, Awada, Obosi.
“According to eyewitness accounts, the suspect, in the afternoon of June 23, 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.
“The suspect is currently in protective custody and is assisting investigating police officers in identifying others involved.”