Alexandra police apprehend Masakhane Clinic baby abduction suspect
A teenager, who allegedly abducted a one-month-old child, was arrested after the missing baby was brought to Alexandra Police Station.
A teenage girl accused of abducting a one-month-old baby at Masakhane Clinic on May 12 has been apprehended. Acting station commander Colonel Jerry Phaswana confirmed that the teenager was arrested later in the evening, and is scheduled to appear before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on May 14.
Read more: What to do if a family member is kidnapped, especially a child
On May 12, Phaswana confirmed that a missing person’s report had been filed by the child’s mother. Phaswana corroborated reports that the mother had been walking with the suspect before stopping to use the restroom, leaving her child in the teen’s care. When she returned, the suspect had vanished with the infant.
Also read: 16-year-old girl arrested after man is kidnapped and assaulted
Reports reveal that the suspect took the baby to her ex-boyfriend’s mother, allegedly to convince her that she had a child with the ex-boyfriend. However, after the family saw reports of a missing child, Phaswana said they took the infant to Alexandra Police Station, where the mother confirmed that the baby was indeed hers.
Phaswana emphasised the swift response, noting: “She came here to report the case. I do not have the full report yet, but remember, there is no waiting period. They did not even have to come here first, they went to investigate right away and they will give me the report when they come back.”
South African Police Services emphasised that it is important that they fulfil their mandate to serve and protect South African citizens. They noted that is it essential that they take necessary steps and start the investigation into missing person’s cases immediately. If someone goes missing, you should report it to the police immediately.
Steps to Report a Missing Person:
1. Go to the nearest police station and file a report as soon as you realise the person is missing.
2. Provide a recent photograph of the missing person to help authorities with identification.
3. Give a detailed description, including their last known whereabouts, and any information that can assist the investigating officer.
4. Complete the SAPS 55(A) form, which allows the police to circulate the missing person’s details publicly.
5. Stay in contact with the investigating officer and provide any new information that may assist in locating the person.
6. Notify the police immediately if the missing person is found or returns voluntarily, and complete the SAPS(92) form to inform the Bureau of Missing Persons that the missing person’s report can be removed from the circulation system.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We’d love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts!
Related article: Child kidnapping prevention tips for all ages
