NKTI probing alleged kidney trafficking involving nurse

BLACK MARKET. National Bureau of Investigation Director Jaime Santiago presents three individuals allegedly operating a black market for human organs on Tuesday (July 16, 2024). According to Santiago, the suspects lured victims into accepting P200,000 in exchange for one of their kidneys. (Photo courtesy of NBI)

By Brian Jules Campued

The National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI) is currently investigating the alleged cases of organ trafficking that tagged one of its nurses as reported by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Tuesday.

According to NBI Director Jaime Santiago, a head nurse at the NKTI and three others allegedly engaged in kidney organ trafficking by facilitating the operation to clients for a fee.

The suspects were also accused of offering P200,000 to their victims in exchange of transferring one of their kidneys to a paying client.

Nine victims were rescued while three were arrested in a raid on a house in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan on July 11.

The nurse, also alleged to be the group’s leader, remains at large, the NBI stated.

Meanwhile, the NKTI confirmed that one of the suspects is their employee, adding that “the management is already conducting its own investigation on the matter.”

It likewise warned the public against transacting with groups, organizations, or private individuals claiming to be from the hospital.

“The NKTI, being the National Specialty Center for Renal Health and Organ Transplantation, honors only legitimate transactions regarding living organ donation and transplantation, including deceased organ donation,” it said.

“We are also advising our patients and other stakeholders to visit NKTI for legitimate and accurate information about our services and activities,” it added. – iro

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