Cape Town - Five cases of child abandonment have already been registered by social workers this year, as the news broke of yet another deceased infant found dumped in Delft yesterday.
Police were called to the latest scene in Fairhaven Street, Voorbrug, where the body of the baby was found inside a plastic bag.
Crimefighters said they were alarmed by yet another case, and appealed for baby savers at local clinics and hospitals.
The Department of Health’s forensic pathology service has yet to confirm how many infants were found deceased this year.
Police have since opened a docket and are searching for the mother.
Police spokesperson, FC van Wyk, said: “Delft police registered a concealment of birth following the discovery of a baby’s body in a white plastic bag, in Fairhaven Street, Voorbrug, Delft. According to reports community members made the discovery and immediately informed SAPS. A post-mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death. No arrest yet, investigations continue.”
Last month, a newborn baby was found alive, hidden inside a plastic bag, by a resident in a backyard in Kuils River. The mother of the infant is facing charges of child neglect.
Earlier in the year, the body of a baby was found along the Stellenbosch Arterial near the Belhar Fire Station.
Another incident involved an infant found alive in Delft in March after being dumped.
Saafia Samuels, a crimefighter who works closely with police, said they were horrified after counting at least eight abandonment cases in Delft.
“We are shocked as I think we have counted about eight cases in recent months,” she said.
“Why is the community and the mothers of these young mothers of the baby, not asking questions about what happened to the infant and why do they not report it to the police?
“There should be a baby saver at local hospitals or clinics instead of mothers choosing dirt bins being used to dump babies in.
“Our communities also need to take responsibility and speak out.”
The Department of Social Services told the Cape Argus that they appealed to mothers who were unable to take care of their babies to seek help at their offices or at public hospitals.
“Between January and March 2024, there were five cases of child abandonment reported to the Western Cape Department of Social Development (these are children of different ages).
“Between April and June 2024 there were 0 reported cases,” they said.
“Support services are available at public health facilities, as well as local DSD offices, and NPOs in the child protection sector for those who need support following the birth of a baby.
“This includes counselling, family planning services, and information about alternative options.
“We encourage anyone who may be suffering from mental health challenges and does not feel in a position to care for their children to reach out to their nearest DSD office where these options can be discussed.
“If a member of the public comes across an abandoned baby, they should alert the SAPS office, or DSD office.”
Anyone with information about the incident has been urged to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or by using the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.
genevieve.serra@inl.co.za
Cape Argus