Tension has gripped the Okeyimi Health Centre in Ado Ekiti following the mysterious disappearance of a newborn baby girl from the facility. The infant, barely a day old, reportedly vanished in the early hours of Monday, throwing the hospital into chaos.
According to sources within the health center, healthcare workers made the alarming discovery when they attempted to attend to the baby during their routine checks, only to find her missing from where she had been placed. The incident has left the infant's mother, family members, other patients, and hospital staff in a state of shock and distress.
Preliminary investigations have already begun, with both the mother and several hospital personnel, including a security guard, taken into custody for questioning. The hospital management has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
SP Sunday Abutu, spokesperson for the Ekiti State Police Command, confirmed the development to BenriNews, stating that four suspects have been arrested in connection with the case.
"The Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to thoroughly investigate the case and ensure that the missing baby is found," SP Abutu stated. "So far, four persons have been arrested and are currently providing useful information to assist in our ongoing investigation."
This incident raises serious concerns about security measures in healthcare facilities across Ekiti State, particularly in maternity wards where newborns should be under constant supervision and protection.
The disappearance comes amid growing concerns about child trafficking in Nigeria, with newborns being particularly vulnerable targets. Health experts have previously called for enhanced security protocols in maternity wards, including surveillance cameras and stricter visitor policies.
As investigations continue, families with newborns at hospitals across the state are understandably anxious, with many calling for immediate reviews of security arrangements at all healthcare facilities.
BenriNews will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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