Dumped newborn found by a community member in a park
Middelburg police have opened a case of child neglect after a new born baby was found wrapped in a plastic bag at Van Blerk Park on 15 September 2023 around 18:00.
The abandoned baby was found by a community member whilst collecting recycling materials at the dustbin. He opened a plastic bag only to find the infant with umbilical cord still attached. Fortunately police were passing by as they were patrolling the area. They were then stopped and informed of the incident.
Emergency Medical Services were also summoned to the scene and the baby boy was rushed to hospital for check-ups as well as treatment. So far the baby is reported to be doing well.
The case has been handed over to the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for further investigation.
Police therefore urge anyone with information that may assist in tracking the mother of the new born child to call Detective Sergeant Mohlwane at 083 349 2351 or call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly condemned the incident whereby an innocent child was dumped like trash and left to die. “The conduct displayed by the child’s mother is uncalled for. No matter how the situation can be, the behaviour can never be condoned. The life of the innocent boy does not deserve such kind of treatment, “said the General.
Source: South Africa Police Service