Heroic JMPD officers save newborn abandoned in plastic bag in Johannesburg

Baby

Johannesburg – Three Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers are being hailed as heroes after rescuing an abandoned newborn baby girl who was found inside a plastic bag in an open veld in Doornfontein, Johannesburg.

According to the JMPD, the incident occurred shortly before midnight on Monday, 13 July, while officers from the Rea Vaya Unit were conducting routine patrols near the intersection of Saratoga Avenue and Hadfield Street.

The officers were flagged down by two members of the public who reported hearing the cries of a baby coming from a nearby open field.

“Without hesitation, the officers proceeded directly to the designated location to investigate,” the JMPD said in a statement.

After searching the area, Officers JM Maseko, MV De Jager and NS Malivha discovered a baby girl dressed in infant clothing but abandoned inside a plastic bag.

The officers immediately secured the infant and called emergency medical services.

The baby was taken to the Hillbrow Clinic, where she was examined by medical staff and declared to be in good health.

Following the medical examination, the officers transported the infant to the Hillbrow South African Police Service (SAPS) station, where a case of child abandonment was opened.

The newborn has since been placed in temporary care at a registered child welfare facility.

The JMPD praised the officers for their swift response, saying their actions likely saved the child’s life.

“The quick thinking, empathy, and professionalism displayed by Officers Maseko, De Jager and Malivha embody the very best of what the JMPD stands for. Their immediate action undoubtedly saved a precious young life,” the department said.

Police have appealed to anyone with information about the identity of the baby’s mother or the circumstances surrounding the abandonment to come forward.

Authorities said investigations into the incident are ongoing.

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