Uganda: Kitgum doctor arrested over conducting surgeries from home

Dr Paul Pope Okwera was detained by a joint team from the State House Health Monitoring Unit and local police after intelligence revealed he was operating a "personal theatre" from his home.

Peter Oyesigye, the Kitgum District Police Commander (DPC), confirmed the arrest and said investigations were ongoing.

"We received the team from the State House Health Monitoring Unit, and we found the doctor and arrested him. We cordoned the scene, and we are continuing our investigations," Oyesigye told Monitor.

Okwera, who was absent from Kitgum General Hospital at the time of his arrest, was taken to Kitgum Central Police Station for questioning.

Dr Stephen Ayella Ataro, assistant director of the State House Health Monitoring Unit, described the home facility as poorly ventilated, with damaged floors and inadequate drainage for medical waste.

"We found him operating alone. His wife joined us during the search. The suspect has been taken into custody while we gather statements. We also checked the general hospital for records of a second surgery and could not find any," Dr Ayella said.

He added that patients from Kitgum General Hospital had allegedly been diverted to Okwera's private premises, where they were charged Shs150,000 for treatment.

"Patients who came to see him in the hospital are diverted and seen from there, and money is paid. We are gathering further information to present to the necessary authorities," he explained.

Dr Geoffrey Okello, medical superintendent at Kitgum General Hospital, said the hospital was unaware of Okwera's private operations.

"For prior knowledge of this place being operated as a clinic, I was not aware. I was surprised when I got there. The place was really not conducive to surgical procedures," Dr Okello told Monitor.

He added that the hospital would cooperate fully with investigators to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents.

"All that is expected from the hospital, we will work with the team and make sure the matter is addressed. Such actions should not continue," he said.