Three Arrested for Allegedly Stealing Placenta in Ondo Hospital

Fidelis David in Akure

Three persons working at the Emure-Ile Comprehensive Health Centre in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State have been arrested in connection with the theft of a new born baby’s placenta.

This was made open after the family  of the new baby raised the alarm when the hospital workers allegedly failed to hand over the placenta to them few days after the issue lingered without delivery of the placenta.

The 23-year-old father, Tunde Ijanusi, while explaining the incident, said they were worried over the alleged failure to give them the placenta of their new born by those who took the delivery.

Also, the paternal grandmother to the baby, Mrs. Funmilayo Ijanusi, alleged that the hospital officials claimed that a dog entered the facility and carted away the placenta.

She also alleged that the hospital personnel also persuaded the family to let go of the matter.

But the 19-year-old mother of the child, Joy John, lamented that after nine months of waiting, she delivered a baby girl on June 15 at the Comprehensive Health Centre in Emure Ile.

According to her, “The joy that usually comes with the birth of a new baby is still missing as she, her family members and neighbours are in sad mood over the missing placenta of her baby.

Mrs. John also called on  relevant government agencies to ensure justice is served on the suspects.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, said the case was still under investigation.