Authorities in Baakens Valley, Port Elizabeth, have launched a manhunt for a woman who discarded a newborn baby in a black refuse bag.
Newborn baby found dumped in Baakens Valley
According to police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu, the gruesome discovery was made by bush dwellers on Sunday, at approximately 13:00.
“Bush dwellers were rummaging in the bush next to Tramways when they stumbled onto the black plastic bag dumped in bushes. Inside the bag, the infant was found with the umbilical cord still attached,” Col. Naidu noted in a statement.
By the time the discovery was made, Naidu confirmed that the baby girl had succumbed to the harsh conditions she was left in.
It is still unclear, at this stage, how long the infant was exposed to the elements. Under normal circumstances, a newborn needs feeding every four hours.
This newborn would have cried and suckled for her mother’s attention. Unfortunately, the woman who police are in search for, wasn’t there to nurture the infant.
Police have not confirmed what exactly caused the death and at the time this article was published, no progress had been made in tracking down the mother.
“Anyone who can assist in tracing the mother or may know of any person who may have been recently being pregnant and may be suspicious of such person is asked to contact SAPS. All information is confidential and callers may remain anonymous,” Naidu pleaded.