Anambra police rescue woman accused of attempting to steal an infant amid mob chaos

A 37‑year‑old woman named Anurika Nweme was rescued from an angry mob after she was accused of attempting to abduct a newborn for sale.

The incident took place at Divine Mercy Hospital on Eze Iweka Road in Awada, Obosi, Anambra State. According to reports, Nweme entered the hospital disguised in clothing that resembled a nurse’s uniform. While inside, she allegedly filmed a newborn and made a secret phone call discussing the baby’s gender with an unknown party.

Police officers from the Anambra State Police Command intervened when a crowd tried to lynch her. The woman was taken into protective custody and is now cooperating with investigators.

In a video circulating online, a nursing mother who had just delivered a baby boy described how Nweme approached her, asked about the baby’s gender, and then began making calls to relay that information.

SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Public Relations Officer for the Anambra State Police Command, released a statement saying that an investigation has begun to determine whether the woman truly intended to steal a newborn. He added that the hospital’s management had confirmed that Nweme was not an employee.

“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, from an angry mob by Police Operatives attached to Awada Divisional Headquarters at Divine Mercy Hospital, Eze Iweka Road, Awada, Obosi,” Ikenga said. “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.”