Two senior doctors in Russia have been taken into custody after nine newborn babies died at a maternity hospital in Siberia over the New Year period, sparking widespread outrage and ongoing investigations.
The fatalities happened at Novokuznetsk Maternity Hospital No.1 between January 1 and 12, with the first infant death recorded on January 4, according to the Investigative Committee of Russia. The incidents unfolded during the long holiday, raising concerns about hospital operations and newborn care.
The Investigative Committee said the hospital’s chief doctor and the head of the intensive care unit had been detained. The statement described their arrest as related to the “improper performance of their official and professional duties in organising and providing medical care.” No official cause of death has been announced.
Svetlana Petrenko, a spokeswoman for the committee, confirmed that all nine babies were born in the same hospital during the stated period. Authorities added that the detained doctors were cooperating with investigators as officials considered charges and pre-trial detention.
Investigators have questioned witnesses and victims’ families and collected materials from the hospital to build the case. Nine post-mortem examinations are underway to determine the circumstances of the deaths.
The committee also shared footage showing one of the men being escorted by officers and another signing papers under official supervision, although no further details were disclosed.
In a separate investigation, the Kemerovo Region Ministry of Health said the infants had a severe intra-uterine infection, according to Interfax. The hospital has since stopped admitting patients, citing a surge in respiratory infections. The case has prompted anger and concern throughout Russia as authorities continue to investigate.
