TOCU Takes Over Investigation into Alleged Organ Trafficking at Mediheal Hospital
“the DCI has reiterated its commitment to conducting the probe with utmost professionalism, aiming to deliver timely justice to both victims and perpetrators of any crimes uncovered”
Maryline Limo, Vice President of Mediheal Group of Hospitals addressing the media in Eldoret.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ (DCI) Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) has assumed control of the ongoing investigation into alleged human organ trafficking at Mediheal Hospital’s Fertility and Transplant Centre in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. This move aims to consolidate various reports and statements from across the North Rift region, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated probe.
“We are committed to a thorough investigation to ensure justice for all parties involved,” the DCI stated, urging individuals with pertinent information to provide their statements at the DCI Headquarters. Standard Media
The allegations against Mediheal Hospital have garnered national and international attention. Reports suggest that foreign patients from countries such as Britain, Israel, and Japan paid substantial sums—up to $200,000—for kidney transplants at the facility. Concerns have been raised about the ethical sourcing of these organs, with suspicions that impoverished donors, some from countries like Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Pakistan, were exploited. HealthCare MEA
The Kenya Renal Association has already called for the immediate suspension of Mediheal Hospital’s operating license. The association cited evidence of “transplant commercialization and transplant tourism,” which contravenes both international guidelines and Kenya’s Health Act of 2017. Standard Media
Mediheal Hospital has denied any wrongdoing. Maryline Limo, the hospital’s Vice President of Operations, stated, “Mediheal wishes to categorically state that the facility strictly adheres to the legal guidelines and the procedure of the hospital.” She emphasized that patients are responsible for bringing their own donors, and the hospital is not involved in sourcing or selecting donors.
The National Assembly’s Health Committee has also initiated an 80-day public inquiry into the matter. Committee Chair James Nyikal remarked, “This is a serious matter that touches on the dignity of life and the reputation of Kenya’s medical profession. We intend to get to the bottom of it.” The inquiry will examine the legality, ethical compliance, and oversight of kidney transplant services at Mediheal Hospital.
As investigations continue, the DCI has reiterated its commitment to conducting the probe with utmost professionalism, aiming to deliver timely justice to both victims and perpetrators of any crimes uncovered.
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