Kitgum Medic Under Investigation for Performing Surgeries in Unlicensed Home Facility

Police in Kitgum District have launched investigations into a medical doctor accused of conducting surgical procedures from his private residence, an act authorities say violated medical regulations and put patients’ lives at risk.

The suspect, identified as Paul Pope Okwera, is a medical practitioner attached to Kitgum General Hospital, one of the main government health facilities serving the district and surrounding areas.

Dr. Okwera was arrested during a joint operation carried out by police and officials from the State House Health Monitoring Unit, following complaints from residents and patients who suspected that medical procedures were being conducted at the doctor’s residence.

According to Peter Oyesigye, preliminary investigations indicate that the doctor had allegedly converted part of his home in Pandwong Division, Kitgum Municipality, into a makeshift operating theatre where he carried out surgical procedures on patients.

“The premises had been arranged in a way that resembled a small operating theatre, but it lacked the necessary standards required for a licensed medical facility,” Oyesigye said.

Officials who inspected the premises reported that the alleged theatre lacked proper sterilisation systems, adequate ventilation and approved infrastructure required for surgical operations.

They also raised concerns about the absence of proper medical waste disposal mechanisms, which are mandatory for facilities conducting surgical procedures.

Authorities say the facility was not registered or licensed by the relevant medical regulatory bodies to provide clinical or surgical services.

Investigators further suspect that the doctor may have been referring patients from Kitgum General Hospital to his private residence where he allegedly charged them for treatment and operations.

Some patients are reported to have paid between Shs100,000 and Shs150,000 for procedures conducted at the home facility.

Security officials say the case came to light after one of the patients who had reportedly undergone surgery at the residence developed complications and later sought treatment at a recognised health facility.

Health authorities have warned that surgeries conducted outside regulated medical environments expose patients to serious infections, complications and life-threatening conditions due to the lack of proper equipment and emergency response systems.

Officials from the State House Health Monitoring Unit said the arrest forms part of ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal health facilities and enforce compliance with medical standards across the country.

Police say Dr. Okwera is currently being held at Kitgum Central Police Station as investigations continue.

He is expected to face charges related to operating an illegal health facility, professional misconduct and endangering the lives of patients once inquiries are concluded.

Authorities have urged members of the public to always seek medical services from licensed health facilities and report suspected illegal medical practices to the relevant authorities.