A man identified as Abass Abubakar has been arrested for allegedly posing as a medical eye specialist and defrauding unsuspecting residents, particularly elderly patients, in the Ekiugbo community in the Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The suspect from Lafia In Nassarawa State was apprehended on Wednesday, following a coordinated operation led by the council Chairman, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, after complaints from the public about his activities.

Abubakar was reportedly operating under the name Al-Arab Eye Clinic and running his operations out of Benin City, a statement by the chairman read.

According to preliminary findings, the suspect allegedly presented himself as an eye specialist treating conditions such as cataract and glaucoma.

He allegedly charged patients between N300,000 and N500,000 for purported treatments.

Authorities further disclosed that substances administered to patients as medicated eye drops were later suspected to be ordinary water, raising serious concerns about potential health risks to victims.

Community sources said many of the affected individuals were elderly and had sought urgent medical attention for deteriorating eyesight before encountering the suspect.

Residents have been advised to verify the credentials of medical practitioners and report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.

Health experts emphasised that licensed ophthalmologists should handle cataract and glaucoma treatments only in accredited medical facilities. (The Nation)