Fake nurse arrested over alleged baby theft attempt in Anambra

Luck smiled on a 37-year-old woman who claimed to be a nurse on Thursday, as she escaped being lynched by an angry mob in Awada, located in the Idemili North local government area of Anambra State.

Anurika Nweme allegedly attempted to steal a newborn baby at a private hospital in the area near the commercial town of Onitsha.

She reportedly dressed neatly as a nurse to pose as a hospital staff member and gained access to the maternity ward, where she was seen taking video shots of the children.

However, her luck ran out when it was discovered that she was not employed at the hospital. People in the vicinity quickly raised the alarm, which attracted a large crowd that descended upon her.

It was only the intervention of the Anambra Police Command that saved her from the angry mob, as they took her into protective custody. The Police Public Relations Officer of the state command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident.

He 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 years 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 23rd June 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,” Ikenga stated.

“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 assisting the investigating police officers in identifying others involved,” he stated.