The Gauteng Department of Health has raised serious concerns following the recent abduction of two babies from public health clinics in Johannesburg. Both cases occurred under similar circumstances and involved unsuspecting mothers who left their infants with strangers posing as helpful bystanders.
Babies taken during clinic visits
The first incident took place at Winnie Mandela Clinic in Tembisa, where a three-day-old baby was snatched while the mother stepped away for a postnatal check-up. She had accepted help from an unknown woman who vanished with the infant by the time she returned.
Just days earlier, on 12 May, another baby was stolen from Alexandra Clinic in a near-identical scenario.
“We therefore urge all parents and guardians to never leave their children unattended; do not entrust your baby to a stranger, no matter how friendly or helpful they may seem,” said Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko.
Infants recovered safely
Authorities confirmed that both babies were safely recovered thanks to robust security systems and coordinated efforts between clinic staff and law enforcement.
A suspect has already been arrested in connection with the Alexandra clinic incident. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the two abductions are linked or isolated.
Call for increased vigilance
Given these alarming events, Gauteng Health has called on parents and caregivers to remain alert and cautious during clinic visits. The department emphasised the importance of not allowing unfamiliar individuals access to newborns under any circumstances.
While the department welcomed the safe recovery of both infants, it stressed that prevention is paramount in protecting vulnerable patients.
How can healthcare facilities and parents work together more effectively to ensure the safety of children in public spaces?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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