A woman was arrested days after she had abandoned her newborn baby next to an outside toilet in the Zenzele area.
Captain Appel Ernst, Randfontein Police spokesperson said, “A 27-year-old woman was recently arrested regarding her new-born baby that she herself wrapped in a plastic bag and left next to an outside toilet on 14 August”.
It is alleged a resident was awoken by the sound of a baby crying outside her house at about 3am. She went to investigate and found a baby wrapped in a plastic bag next to an outside toilet.
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Members of the Randfontein Police attended the scene when the resident found a new born baby.
“The baby was transported to a local hospital for observation. The investigating officer, Constable Mandla Khuse arrested the suspect at the same address where the baby was found,” Ernst added.
A case of child abandonment was opened. A case of perjury was also opened against the suspect after she falsely claimed she had found the baby, while she was actually the biological mother of the child. The suspect was charged and her first appearance in court was on 21 August. The case was remanded until 11 October.
Local police also confirmed the suspect is currently out on bail in order to attend an adult diversion programme. Constable Khuse is applauded for the efforts he made in securing the arrest.
Brigadier Jacob Manamela, the Randfontein Police station commander reiterated that it is a criminal offence give a false statement when opening a case.
“We will continue to pursue those who waste the time and resources of the South African Police,” Brigadier said.
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