The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has mandated the immediate closure of Omnicare Medical Limited in Nairobi due to serious violations following the death of Lucy Wambui during a cosmetic surgery procedure.
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni announced the closure on November 2, stating that the facility, known as “Body by Design,” failed to adhere to essential medical regulations outlined in the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act.
In her statement, Muthoni noted that inspections revealed the clinic was operating below required medical standards and neglecting patient safety protocols critical to protecting patients’ health.
“The facility will remain closed until it achieves full compliance with all health regulations,” she emphasized.
Muthoni further indicated that a comprehensive investigation into Wambui’s death is underway to determine accountability for the incident.
“We are closely examining the actions of the institution and the personnel involved in Ms. Wambui’s care to ensure that any malpractice is addressed,” she added.
Wambui, the wife of prominent car dealer Francis Ng’ang’a, died after undergoing surgery, prompting widespread public concern.
The KMPDC had previously suspended the clinic for multiple violations, including operating without proper licensing and employing unqualified staff.
In response, Omnicare Medical has defended its practices, asserting that it is fully accredited and equipped with modern medical technology and qualified surgeons.
Lawyer Danstan Omari stated that Wambui had undergone thorough pre-surgery assessments at both their facility and MP Shah Hospital, confirming her fitness for the procedure.
According to Omari, Wambui initially planned to be discharged on October 17 but chose to stay longer for additional monitoring.
She experienced chest pains on October 18 and was later discharged on October 22. However, she returned later that evening for further care but found the clinic closed.
Wambui was then taken to Nairobi Hospital for a second procedure, where she tragically passed away on October 26.
Omari expressed concerns that the death may be unfairly attributed to Omnicare Medical, emphasizing that no official autopsy results have been released.
He also criticized the KMPDC for allegedly basing its closure decision on unreliable social media reports rather than concrete evidence.
Omari has since filed for a court order to reverse the closure, arguing that the KMPDC acted irrationally and unlawfully.
The closure notice, issued on October 31, followed an increase in public concern, leading former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and local residents to demand explanations at the clinic’s offices amid fears that botched surgeries may have led to fatalities.
