The Cross River State Police Command has commenced an investigation into an alleged unauthorised hernia surgery performed on a 60-year-old man at a private clinic in Ekori, Yakurr Local Government Area, after the patient reportedly developed complications following the procedure.
The Police disclosed this in a press release signed by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, ANIPR, MNISMA, on September 12, 2026.
Patient Develops Complications After Surgery
According to the Police, the patient, identified as Ukpan, surname withheld, underwent the alleged procedure on September 8, 2026, and was discharged the same day.
Three days later, on September 11, at about 4:00 p.m., the patient was reportedly taken to Ugep General Hospital by Bassey Otu Bassey, a 33-year-old man, following complications said to have developed after the procedure.
The circumstances surrounding the patient’s condition are now part of the ongoing investigation.
Police Prevent Alleged Mob Attack
The Police said that while the patient was receiving treatment at the hospital at about 9:00 p.m., members of his family allegedly attempted to mob Bassey Otu Bassey.
The family reportedly raised concerns about his professional status and alleged involvement in the procedure.
Police officers promptly intervened, prevented the mob action and took Bassey into protective custody at the Ugep Police Division.
Suspect Allegedly Identifies Himself as Theatre Assistant
During preliminary questioning, the suspect reportedly stated that he is a theatre assistant who undertook the procedure in the absence of his principal.
The Police said they are currently verifying his professional status and qualifications, as well as the circumstances under which the alleged surgery was performed.
The Command is also investigating the nature and cause of the patient’s complications and whether they are connected to the procedure.
Police Warn Against Jungle Justice
The Police Command stressed that no conclusion has been reached regarding criminal liability or the cause of the patient’s medical condition pending the outcome of investigations and relevant medical and professional findings.
The Command urged members of the public to desist from mob action and jungle justice, assuring that anyone found culpable based on credible evidence will be made to face the law.
The Police said further developments would be communicated as the investigation progresses.
This report is based on a press release issued by the Cross River State Police Command. The allegations remain subject to investigation, and the suspect is presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of law.
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