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Doctor blamed for botched surgeries speaks out

Posted at 7:15 PM, Jan 14, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-14 22:15:46-05

For the first time, the doctor accused of severely injuring several patients after their weight loss surgeries in Mexico spoke to Team 10 to share his version of events.

More than a dozen patients spoke to Team 10, accusing Dr. Mario Almanza of causing their injuries after surgery. Team 10 investigations found four patients who died after their procedures.

"Do you feel you are a safe doctor?" asked Team 10 Investigator Melissa Mecija.

"Yes," Dr. Almanza said in Spanish. His brother, Hugo Almanza, translated during Team 10's interview.

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Dr. Almanza said he has performed more than 14,000 surgeries, and he told Team 10 the patients came forward to share their stories because one of his former employees was trying to extort him and ruin his name.

Watch Team 10 Investigator Melissa Mecija's full report in the video player above.