ALS PARAMEDICS were called by local security companies to a foetus found in a rubbish bin on JB Mark’s Road before King Dinuzulu Road just after 09:20 this morning.

“Unfortunately, there was nothing the paramedics could do, and the foetus was declared deceased. It is alleged that people digging through the bin made the horrific discovery and alerted authorities,” aid ALS’s Garreth Jamieson.

Also read: Foetus discovered in Overport bin

According to the Law For All organisation, “With a reported 3 500 unwanted babies deserted every year, it’s safe to say that child abandonment and foetus dumping in South Africa is an epidemic.  While it is illegal, there are various reasons that parents abandon their children. According to The Department of Social Development, the primary reasons include financial issues, lack of family support, unwanted pregnancy, resentment of the baby and fear of judgement from family members.”

“Alternate options for people who don’t want their children, if finances are the primary concern, are applying for a child support grant which could alleviate some of the pressure or alternatively, contacting a social worker. They can help with placing the child in foster care or adoption programmes. If that’s not possible, the social worker can also assist with placing the child in a youth care centre.”

Umbilo SAPS confirmed the incident and shared that an investigation was underway.

For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here