The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 39-year-old man, Udeme Emmanuel Ekpeme, over allegations of impersonation, operating an illegal mobile clinic, and defrauding a woman of ₦500,000 under the false promise of securing employment for her children at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).
The suspect was apprehended by operatives of the Uwanse Police Division in Calabar South following a formal complaint lodged by a 45-year-old resident, Mrs. Edemawan Samuel, who accused him of obtaining money from her through false pretences.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the suspect allegedly posed as a qualified medical doctor to gain the confidence of the complainant before convincing her that he had the influence to facilitate employment opportunities for her children at UCTH.
The police spokesperson stated that the suspect fraudulently collected the sum of ₦500,000 from the woman after assuring her that he could secure the appointments through his purported connections within the teaching hospital.
“The suspect falsely presented himself as a medical doctor and fraudulently obtained the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (₦500,000) from the complainant under the false promise of securing employment for her children at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH),” the statement read.
Preliminary investigations by detectives revealed that the suspect allegedly relied on his false identity as a medical practitioner to deceive unsuspecting victims into believing he possessed the authority and influence required to facilitate employment in the health institution.
During the course of the investigation, police operatives recovered several exhibits believed to be linked to the alleged offences. Authorities, however, did not disclose the specific items recovered, noting that they would form part of the evidence in the ongoing investigation.
The suspect is currently in police custody while detectives continue to unravel the full extent of his alleged criminal activities.
The Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, has directed investigators to conduct a comprehensive probe into the matter to determine whether the suspect has defrauded other members of the public using the same method.
According to the command, the investigation will also focus on establishing whether the suspect operated alone or had accomplices who assisted him in impersonating a medical professional and carrying out the alleged fraud.
“The Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, has directed that a thorough investigation be carried out to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case and determine whether there are other victims. Upon the conclusion of investigations, the suspect will be charged to court if sufficient evidence is established,” the police spokesperson stated.
The police further disclosed that investigators are conducting discreet inquiries aimed at uncovering additional victims who may have been deceived by the suspect under similar circumstances. Authorities are also examining the activities of the alleged illegal mobile clinic reportedly operated by Ekpeme to determine its legality and whether members of the public were exposed to health risks.
The command reiterated its commitment to protecting residents from fraud and other criminal activities, assuring the public that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
It also urged members of the public to exercise caution when dealing with individuals claiming to have the ability to secure employment in government institutions or offering medical services without proper verification.
The police advised citizens to verify the credentials of individuals presenting themselves as medical professionals and to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or other relevant authorities.
The Cross River State Police Command assured residents that updates on the case would be provided as investigations progress and reaffirmed its resolve to ensure justice for victims of fraud and impersonation.
