They have nothing to sell but their kidneys

Mohammad Khalid (left), Mohammad Ijaz (centre) and Liaqat show scars left on their bodies after they sold their kidneys. Photos: Reuters

For a hospital, this centre for kidney transplants in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, appears to hold a lot of secrets.

“No photography allowed,” reads a prominently displayed notice by the entrance. There are only about a dozen people in the waiting room. Leaning back against a two-seater is a young woman accompanied by a boy about six years old. Her hands are rough and calloused, and her complexion has a sunburnt look of someone who works outdoors all day.