Anambra State Government Initiates Legal Action Against Mr Uchenna Ugochukwu Joseph Over Missing Corpse
In a significant development, the Anambra State Government has brought Mr Uchenna Ugochukwu Joseph, the proprietor of New Centuary Medical Complex Mortuary in Isuaniocha, to court concerning the perplexing case of the missing corpse of 26-year-old Okeke Chinonso.
Background of the Case
According to a statement released by the media aide to the Social Welfare Commissioner, Chidinma Ikeanyionwu, the deceased’s body was initially deposited at New Centuary Medical Complex Mortuary on August 4, 2023.
However, when the family was ready for the burial, they were shocked to receive a completely different corpse.
Family’s Allegations and Inquiry
The complainants, Mrs Rejoice Odogwu (sister to the deceased) and Mr Sopuruchukwu Okeke (the deceased’s husband), asserted that the mortuary insisted on the correctness of the provided corpse, despite clear disparities.
They emphasized differences such as age, hairstyle, and alleged surgical interventions on the body handed over to them.
Threats and Intimidation
Upon refusing to accept the disputed corpse, the family claims that Mr Uchenna Ugochukwu Joseph, the mortuary owner, resorted to threats.
The family reported the matter to the Honourable Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, stating that the embalmed body did not match the deceased they initially entrusted to the mortuary.
Obstacles Faced by the Family
The family faced obstacles when attempting to visit the mortuary, citing denial of access to the deceased’s sister-in-law, who was informed that pregnant women were not allowed in the morgue.
The mortuary consistently inquired about the burial date, and the family, trusting the mortuary’s services, did not find this unusual.
Tragic Circumstances Surrounding the Death
Mrs Rejoice Odogwu revealed that the deceased died during childbirth, prompting the family to bring her body closer to home for burial preparations.
However, their grief turned into a shocking ordeal when they discovered the alleged switch of the corpse in October.
Settlement Offer and Further Allegations
After the matter was reported to the community, Mr Joseph reportedly offered the family 850,000 naira for settlement.
The deceased’s sister expressed frustration and emphasized that the family was defrauded of the corpse, leading to the decision to pursue legal action.
The unfolding legal proceedings shed light on a disturbing incident involving the mishandling of a deceased individual’s remains, prompting authorities to intervene in the pursuit of justice.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn
Read Related News On TDPel Media
