Secunderabad: Srushti Fertility Centre doctor, lab technicians held for illegal surrogacy, sperm trafficking racket

Hyderabad: Police arrested Dr Namrata, manager of Universal Srushti Fertility Centre in Regimental Bazaar, Secunderabad, for her alleged role in an illegal surrogacy and sperm trafficking racket.

Along with her, two lab technicians and seven others linked to an unlicensed interstate fertility network have also been taken into custody.

DNA discrepancy triggers probe

The racket came to light after a couple from Rajasthan, currently residing in Secunderabad, lodged a complaint when DNA tests revealed that the child born through a surrogate arranged by the clinic was not biologically related to them.

The couple had paid Rs 30 lakh to the clinic for a surrogacy procedure three years ago. When the baby was born this year, they requested DNA verification of the surrogate mother. Dr Namrata allegedly delayed the tests repeatedly.

Suspecting foul play, the couple got independent testing done in Delhi, which confirmed their fears — the child shared no genetic link with them.

Doctor goes missing after admitting ‘mistake’

In June, the couple confronted Dr Namrata with the DNA results. She is said to have admitted to a ‘mix-up’ and requested time to resolve the issue. However, she soon disappeared, prompting the couple to approach the Gopalapuram police with a formal complaint.

Late-night raids, evidence seized

Acting swiftly, police conducted late-night raids at the fertility centre, interrogating staff till 2 am. During the operation, they seized key documents and preserved sperm samples for forensic examination.

The investigation revealed that the clinic was engaged in illegal collection and transportation of sperm and eggs to other states, including Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

Interstate network uncovered

Police found that the fertility centre was operating in collaboration with a firm named Indian Sperm Tech, which was functioning without official clearance.

As the probe widened, police arrested the firm’s regional manager, Pankaj Soni, and six more individuals were identified as Sampath, Srinu, Jitender, Shiva, Manikantha, and Boro, who were allegedly involved in sourcing and shipping reproductive material across states.

More arrests likely

Officials are now investigating the full extent of the operation, including possible violations of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, surrogacy laws, and other medical ethics regulations.

Authorities suspect that more fertility centres and agents may be involved in the network. The arrested individuals are being interrogated, and further action is expected in the coming days.