Anambra police rescue woman accused of trying to steal infant from mob action 

A 37-year old woman, Anurika Nweme, has been rescued from an angry mob after she was accused of invading a hospital with intent to abduct a new born for sale.

The woman was said to have been apprehended by persons in Divine Mercy Hospital, Eze Iweka Road, Awada, Obosi, Anambra State, after she dressed like a nurse to gain access into the hospital, making a recording of a newborn child, while allegedly making a secret phone call to some people about the gender of the baby they want.

A press release by the Anambra State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that the woman was taken away by police operatives after a crowd attempted to lynch her.

The release also stated that investigation have commenced to ascertain the truth in the matter, if truly her mission was to steal a newborn.

In a video seen online, a nursing mother who had just been delivered of a baby boy said the woman approached her and was asking the gender of her baby, and later started making calls to tell someone on the other end about the gender available.

Ikenga 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. 

“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,” the spokesperson said.