Pretoria – Natalspruit Hospital officials have appealed to the public to help in the search for a baby boy who was stolen at the hospital on Wednesday afternoon.
The baby’s mother, 27-year-old Lindelwa Vivi from Zonkizizwe Section in Katlehong, delivered the baby in the early hours of Wednesday morning and was later discharged. The baby was stolen while Vivi was waiting for someone to fetch her and the baby.
Vivi said she left the side ward, where babies are kept for a short period, as she needed to use the bathroom.
“I was in the mothers’ waiting room with other new mothers when two ladies carrying plastic bags asked where the newborns are kept. We pointed them to the side ward. As I walked in back from the toilet, I noticed that my baby was gone,” she said.
According to the hospital’s Acting CEO, Dr Gilbert Motlatla, security was immediately informed but unfortunately the suspects and the baby could not be found.
“South African Police Service was called to the hospital and they took statements from different people, and they are currently investigating.
“As the hospital, we are investigating the circumstances surrounding the missing child, and with the assistance of the community and the police, we hope that the baby will be found in good health,” said Motlatla.
The hospital has offered the family counselling to help them deal with the trauma of being separated from the newborn baby.
The baby was still wrapped in a hospital gown and he is said to be fair in complexion.
Anyone who has information that can assist in ensuring the safe return of the baby, as well as the whereabouts of the suspects, can call Katlehong North Police Station on 011 909 8400. – SAnews.gov.za
