A nine-day-old baby who was reported missing from a Bellville shopping centre has been found safe and unharmed, following a swift and coordinated response by specialised SAPS units.
Police confirmed that a 37-year-old woman was arrested at a residence in Honolulu Street, Tafelsig, in connection with the kidnapping.
She remains in custody and is expected to appear in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court soon.
Disappearance and swift police response
The drama unfolded on Saturday, 28 June, when the child’s mother filed a kidnapping case at Bellville SAPS.
According to reports, she was at a local shopping complex when she became suddenly ill and asked a woman who had been accompanying her to watch the baby while she used the bathroom.
When she returned, both the woman and her infant had vanished.
48-hour manhunt and rescue operation
The recovery effort was spearheaded by the Provincial Organised Crime: Anti-Kidnapping Investigation Unit, supported by Crime Intelligence and the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Bellville.
Using a highly analytical and intelligence-led approach, the multidisciplinary team tracked the suspect to the Tafelsig area within 48 hours.
The baby was recovered safely at the suspect’s residence.
Ongoing investigation
Police have not disclosed the nature of the relationship, if any, between the suspect and the mother, nor the motive behind the kidnapping.
Investigations are ongoing.
SAPS commends teamwork
SAPS officials praised the dedication, coordination, and efficiency of all units involved, noting that the operation likely prevented a tragic outcome.
“The multidisciplinary team worked tirelessly and swiftly to reunite the baby with their mother. Their professionalism and commitment to protecting our most vulnerable citizens is commendable,” said a SAPS spokesperson.
Key facts:
- Baby abducted: Saturday, 28 June from Bellville shopping centre
- Suspect arrested: Monday, 30 June in Tafelsig
- Recovery time: Within 48 hours
- Baby’s condition: Found safe and unharmed
- Court appearance: Bellville Magistrate’s Court (date pending)
Can you imagine discovering that your nine-day-old baby has gone missing?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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