In the South African province of KwaZulu Natal, a baby girl believed to be three months old was found abandoned along with a note from her mother.
The baby was found by a man who was harvesting mangoes at the base of an embankment adjacent to a stream in Dawncrest, according to a statement issued by Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) on Monday, October 3, 2022.
Next to the baby was a bag holding diapers, a bottle of milk, and a pacifier. The note stated that she attempted to contact social workers twice but was unsuccessful.
The mother also stated that abortion was not an option as it is no longer safe and hospitals have strict rules.
She further requested that authorities be notified when the baby is located.
The note reads:
“Hi, you might be wondering why I dumped my baby, don’t wonder, just help her if you can or call authorities but don’t judge me. I have spoken twice with social workers. They are delaying to assist. I know this looks bad but I had no option. The system is fragile and we can’t even abort safely anymore. Hospitals have strict rules.”
On arrival, Reaction Officers were pointed out the location of the discovery and handed over the child and the bag.
A female Officer and Medics were called to the scene and the child’s soaked diaper was changed.
The baby girl was then given a bottle of milk to drink. The infant, who was about three months old, was in good health when doctors checked her.
A criminal case of child abandonment will be opened, and reaction officers will work to find the child’s or mother’s identity.