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Fake abortion doctor arrested in Free State

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An intelligence-driven operation between Crime intelligence and the Free State Hawks has led to the arrest of a 53-year-old Ugandan national in Phuthaditjhaba, Qwaqwa.

Pills to induce labour

The man was apprehended on suspicion of performing illegal abortions and for using different names to scam people.

Read: Limpopo fighting illegal abortion clinics

The Ugandan suspect was arrested at his so-called surgery, based in a house in Qwaqwa. He was believed to have been posing as a qualified medical doctor, and was allegedly carrying out abortions.

The police searched the premises and found Misoprostol pills sold under the brand name Cytotec. They are believed to have been given to the pregnant women who wanted an abortion. The medication would induce labour which would then result in abortion.

Police found a register listing all the patients along with advertising pamphlets and posters used to promote the abortion business. The posters were the same as those pasted on walls at a nearby taxi rank.

Read: Strict law pushes Polish women to have abortions abroad

All four of the cellphones used by the doctor were also seized.

Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Lebeoana Tsumame urged members of the community to approach primary health facilities for all their health concerns and needs. He said people were risking their health and well-being by going to unregistered doctors.

The suspect is now facing criminal charges relating to the carrying out of illegal abortions.

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