- Police discovered the body of a newborn baby at a dumping site in Komatipoort.
- The body was found by a passerby and was already in a state of decomposition.
- Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the baby’s death and urging the public to come forward with information.
Police in Komatipoort, Mpumalanga, responded to a tragic and disturbing incident on Sunday, 7 July 2024, when the body of a newborn baby was discovered at a dumping site in Mjejane near Komatipoort at about 16:20.
Komatipoort dumping site turns to crime scene
A passerby made the gruesome discovery, noting that the baby’s body had already lost its original colour due to decomposition.
Upon arrival at the scene, Komatipoort police summoned medical practitioners who declared that the baby was no longer alive.
Due to the condition of the body, the police could not immediately confirm the child’s gender.
An investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the baby’s death, including whether the child was dumped alive or already deceased.
Police have urged anyone with information about the child’s mother to contact Komatipoort standby investigating officer Sergeant Vusimuzi Thobela on 072 196 8225.
Alternatively, community members can contact the Crime Stop number at 086000 10111 or send information via the MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated with a high level of confidentiality.
Police plead with parents to consider adoption
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, condemned the inhumane act of dumping an innocent child in a dumping site.
Major General Mkhwanazi called on community members to assist the police in locating the person responsible for the child’s death to ensure justice is served.
“If parents feel that they do not need their children, they should rather give them up for adoption rather than compromising their lives,” said Major General Mkhwanazi.
The police and social services emphasise the importance of considering safe alternatives such as adoption or legal guardianship for parents who are unable or unwilling to care for their children.
There are numerous resources and organizations available to help parents navigate the process of giving a child up for adoption, ensuring that the child is placed in a safe and loving environment.
