WESTERN CAPE residents from the Delft and Belhar areas were shocked after the body of a newborn baby was dumped in their area on Saturday, 30 March.
The body, placed in a black bag, was found under a tree along Stellenbosh Arterial Road, a road that divides Belhar and Delft.
According to resident Bernedette Bailey (44) from Belhar, the body was found by a young boy.
It's alleged that the boy was walking with his friends when he opened the bag which seemed abandoned.
To his shock, he found a newborn baby and reported it to his parents.
Residents believe the bag could have been left by a motorist since it was found on the side of the road.
“Nothing like this has ever happened in our area. We are shocked, and our children are traumatised. We do not know whether the culprit who dumped this child is from our area or not. But we suspect this person dropped the bag and drove away,” said Bernedette.
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Another resident said the mother should have given the baby to foster parents rather than killing him.
“This is an innocent baby who did not ask to be born. This mother should have thought long about her actions. Why not give the child away if you don’t want him? I’m so hurt because there are lot of people who are trying hard to have children, but they have not conceived yet. This cruel mother decided to end the child’s life just like that,” said the elderly woman, who was crying at the scene.
Western Cape police spokesman Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi said an inquest case docket has been opened.
“Belhar police responded to a complaint on Saturday, 30 March 2024. Upon their arrival on Stellenbosch Arterial Drive, they found the body of a newborn baby left behind. The victim was declared dead by the medical personnel. We can confirm that no one has been arrested since. Belhar police registered an inquest for further investigation,” said Swartbooi.
Cops are asking for anyone with information to call CrimeStop on 08600 10111.
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