NKTI probes alleged kidney trafficking

MANILA – The National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) on Tuesday said it is conducting its own investigation on alleged cases of organ trafficking.

The NKTI reacted on the National Bureau of Investigation's arrest in Bulacan of three persons 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.

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

Being the National Specialty Center for Renal Health and Organ Transplantation, the NKTI emphasized that it honors "legitimate transactions only" regarding living organ donation, transplantation and deceased organ donation.

"We are also advising our patients and other stakeholders to visit NKTI for legitimate and accurate information about our services and activities," it said. (PNA)