Security agencies in northern Uganda have arrested a doctor accused of running an illegal surgical facility from his residence in Kitgum Municipality.
The suspect, Paul Pope Okwera, is attached to Kitgum General Hospital.
According to investigators, the doctor allegedly transformed part of his residence into a theatre where he performed surgical procedures on patients.
The arrest was carried out by a joint team of police and the State House Health Monitoring Unit, which has been conducting inspections of health facilities across the country.
Officials said the operation followed complaints from residents who suspected that medical procedures were being conducted at the doctor’s residence.
During the raid, authorities reportedly recovered medical equipment believed to have been used in surgical procedures.
The team also discovered that the premises lacked proper infection control systems and did not meet the required health standards for a surgical facility.
Police say some patients were allegedly charged up to Shs150,000 for treatment and operations conducted at the residence.
Health experts have warned that surgeries conducted in unregulated environments can lead to serious infections, complications and even death.
The suspect is currently being held by police as investigators prepare possible charges related to illegal medical practice and negligence.
