Fake Medical Practitioner Exposed in Cross River After Treating 15 Patients

Operatives of the Uwanse Police Division in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State have apprehended a 39-year-old man, Udeme Emmanuel Ekpeme, for allegedly impersonating a medical doctor. The suspect's arrest was prompted by a complaint filed by Mrs Edemawan Samuel, who accused him of fraudulently obtaining N500,000 from her under the pretext of securing employment for her children at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital. According to the police, Ekpeme posed as a medical doctor and collected the money from the complainant, promising to facilitate her children's employment at the hospital. However, he diverted the funds to settle a personal debt of N700,000. In his confession, Ekpeme revealed that he had dropped out of medical school but continued to practice medicine, treating at least 15 patients between 2014 and 2026. He claimed to have purchased medical equipment to diagnose and treat patients, often relying on word-of-mouth referrals. The suspect admitted to administering injections to the complainant and her two children, presenting himself as a qualified medical practitioner. The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the arrest, stating that preliminary investigations indicate the suspect falsely presented himself as a medical doctor and unlawfully obtained N500,000 from the complainant. The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, cautioned the public against patronizing unlicensed medical practitioners, emphasizing the importance of verifying the credentials of healthcare providers. Exhibits linked to the alleged offenses have been recovered, and the suspect remains in custody.