Tanzania, May 21 -- Dar es Salaam. Behind the crowded streets and tightly packed rental compounds of Dar es Salaam, a secret abortion network is operating quietly beyond the reach of formal healthcare authorities.

There are no signboards, licences or official records. Yet for many young women facing unwanted pregnancies, the service is often just a WhatsApp message or phone call away.

An investigation has uncovered an underground system involving self-styled nurses, unlicensed practitioners, informal drug sellers and brokers allegedly arranging unsafe abortions in rented rooms, private houses and through social media contacts.

Health experts warn the network is expanding amid fear, social stigma, legal uncertainty and limited access to...