Abandoned baby found alive in Empangeni CBD

It was alleged the child was discovered by a passer-by last week, who took her to Empangeni police, and was subsequently admitted to Lower Umfolozi War Memorial Regional Hospital (LUWMRH) for medical attention, Zululand Observer reported.

Spokesperson Captain Mbongeni Mdlalose said it was a serious incident. As investigations are under way, the charge could be amended to attempted murder.

LUWMRH public relations officer Nompilo Xaba said social workers appointed by the department of health were also investigating the matter.

Xaba added that the little girl was in a stable condition. The hospital has donated clothes to her, as well as a compassionate mother, whose baby is in the same unit.

The baby is expected to remain in hospital while investigations continue and, once discharged, she will be put in a place of safety under the care of a designated social worker.

No arrests have been made.

In the same week, an abandoned newborn baby boy abandoned newborn baby boy was found wrapped in a black plastic bag, surrounded by beer bottles and rubbish in a Standerton park.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Fanie Nhlabathi confirmed that the child had been found two days after he was born in the Standerton Hospital on December 1.

Police said the child’s mother apparently told the nursing staff that she did not want the baby, but was discharged with her newborn on December 3.

The baby was taken to the Trauma Care Centre and later handed over to a police social worker to be put in a place of safety.

– Caxton News Service