Nigerian doctor Chinonso Egemba, known as Aproko Doctor, has alerted women about a “cryptic pregnancy” scam.
Fake medical professionals use hormone injections to mimic pregnancy symptoms. Later, they give victims babies likely obtained through trafficking.
How Scammers Deceive Women
Aproko Doctor posted on X: “If someone says an ultrasound can’t show your baby, they’re scamming you.” Real pregnancies appear on scans.
Fraudsters use drugs to cause swelling and nausea, ban scans, and limit visits to one clinic. On “delivery” day, they sedate victims and provide a stolen baby.
Viral Claim Raises Red Flags
The warning followed a viral story by Bambam, a Big Brother Naija star. She shared a church member’s claim of a three-year, four-month pregnancy, calling it a miracle. This story spread fast but alarmed experts.
Expert Backs Warning
Dr. Olusina Ajidahun, or The Bearded Dr. Sina on X, agreed. He said, “A three-year pregnancy is unlikely.” Scammers use hormones for fake symptoms and restrict scans to one place.
On delivery, they drug the woman and give a trafficked baby. This scam targets desperate women, often older, with false “cryptic pregnancy” claims.
Targeting Vulnerable Women
Scammers exploit women eager for children, charging high fees for fake treatments. Victims face emotional pain and confusion when the scam is revealed. Some are kept in harsh conditions at fake clinics.
Tips to Stay Safe
To avoid this scam, follow these steps:
- Get ultrasounds from licensed doctors.
- Question “miracle” pregnancy claims without proof.
- Seek second opinions from trusted clinics.
- Report suspicious facilities to police.
Why the Scam Spreads
The scam grows because of infertility struggles and delayed pregnancies. Fraudsters prey on hope, running networks across Nigeria for profit.
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