The Free State Hawks have arrested a 53-year-old Ugandan national in Qwaqwa, posing as a qualified medical doctor and allegedly carrying out abortions.
Health-e News reports that he was apprehended on suspicion of performing illegal abortions and for using different names to scam people.
The Ugandan suspect was arrested at his so-called surgery, based in a house in Qwaqwa. He was believed to have been posing as a qualified medical doctor and was allegedly carrying out abortions.
The police searched the premises and found Misoprostol pills sold under the brand name Cytotec. They are believed to have been given to the pregnant women who wanted an abortion. The medication would induce labour which would result in the abortion.
The report said the police found a register listing all the patients along with advertising pamphlets and posters used to promote the abortion business. The posters were the same as those posted on walls at a nearby taxi rank. All four of the cellphones used by the doctor were also seized.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Lebeoana Tsumame urged members of the community to approach primary health facilities for all their health concerns and needs. He said people were risking their health and well-being by going to unregistered doctors.
The suspect is now facing criminal charges relating to the carrying out of illegal abortions.
[link url="https://www.health-e.org.za/2017/01/20/fake-doctor-arrested/"]Health-e News report[/link]