NKTI PROBES ALLEGED KIDNEY TRAFFICKING

THE alleged cases of kidney trafficking is being investigated by the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI).

According to the NKTI, it is conducting its own investigation into the issue.

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) earlier arrested three persons in Bulacan who allegedly buy and sell human organs, including kidneys.

One of the suspects who remained at-large is an NKTI nurse and the alleged gang leader.

“While we confirm that the said nurse is indeed an employee of the NKTI, we would like to assure the public that the management is already conducting its own investigation on the matter,” the hospital said in a statement.

The NKTI also warned the public against entering into transactions outside the hospital with groups, organizations and private individuals claiming to be from ther hospital.

According to the NKTI, they honor “legitimate transactions only” regarding living organ donation, transplantation and deceased organ donation.

On July 11, operatives of the NBI arrested three individuals for alleged kidney trafficking in Bulacan and rescued nine victims during the operation.

Suspects Angela Atayde, Marichu Lomibao, and Dannel Sicat were arrested in Bgy. Tungkong Mangga, San Jose del Monte City following information regarding the alleged kidney trafficking.

The alleged ringleader identified as Allan Ligaya, a head nurse at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, remains at large, the NBI  said.

Authorities said the suspects facilitated the transfer of kidneys conducted in a house in Bgy. Tungkong Mangga. The victims received P200,000 in exchange for their organs.

According to the NBI, they are also investigating a Facebook group allegedly being used for organ trafficking.