The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) warned Sunday the public against unlicensed individuals pretending to be medical professionals following the arrest of a person pretending to be a doctor in Caloocan City.

CIDG chief PMGen. Nicolas Torre III said law enforcement authorities conducted an entrapment operation against the suspect, identified as Jenel, on 19 February at Bermudez Polymedic Hospital in Caloocan City.

The police operation stemmed from a complaint alleging that the suspect, a resident of Barangay 391, Tala, Caloocan City, was conducting medical consultations and issuing prescriptions without the necessary registration or license to practice as a medical doctor.

Authorities said that the suspect was charged before the National Prosecution Service with violation of Section 10 of Republic Act 4224, which amends certain sections of Republic Act 2382, the Medical Act of 1959, for engaging in acts not constituting the practice of medicine.

“The state values and protects all the lives of the citizenry and it is very alarming to see fake doctors treating patients. Practice of medicine is very crucial and important and must be performed by licensed professionals,” Torre said.

The CIDG chief also warned it will run after individuals conducting similar illegal activities.

“The arrest of the suspect is a warning to all criminals and violators of the law that the CIDG will enforce the law and will capture all individuals or groups who violate the law,” Torre said.