Charles Esther
The Gauteng Department of Health has issued a serious warning to parents following the abduction of two infants from public health clinics in Johannesburg.
Both incidents occurred under strikingly similar circumstances and have sparked concern over child safety in medical facilities.
Infants Taken During Routine Clinic Visits
The first incident took place at the Winnie Mandela Clinic in Tembisa.
A three-day-old baby was abducted after the mother momentarily left the child with a woman posing as a helpful bystander.
The mother stepped away for a postnatal check-up, only to return and find both the stranger and her baby gone.
This alarming event came just days after a similar abduction on May 12 at the Alexandra Clinic.
In that case, another baby was taken in nearly identical fashion.
Both mothers had entrusted their infants to strangers who presented themselves as friendly and trustworthy.
MEC Urges Parents Not to Trust Strangers
Reacting to the incidents, Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasized that under no circumstances should parents leave their children in the care of strangers.
“We therefore urge all parents and guardians to never leave their children unattended,” she said.
“Do not entrust your baby to a stranger, no matter how friendly or helpful they may seem.”
The department’s message is clear—vigilance and caution are crucial in safeguarding children, especially in public facilities.
Babies Safely Recovered, Suspect Arrested
Fortunately, both infants have been safely recovered, thanks to swift action from clinic personnel and law enforcement.
Authorities praised the role of robust security systems in helping to locate the missing babies.
One suspect has already been arrested in connection with the Alexandra Clinic abduction.
Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the two incidents are linked or if they were isolated cases.
Department Stresses Prevention Over Recovery
While Gauteng Health celebrated the safe return of both babies, it warned that prevention must be prioritized.
Officials noted that it only takes a moment of distraction for an abduction to occur.
Parents must remain aware and cautious, especially in environments that are crowded or where movement is restricted.
The department plans to assess and enhance security protocols at clinics across the province to ensure such incidents do not happen again.
A Shared Responsibility Between Clinics and Parents
Healthcare facilities play a key role in protecting vulnerable patients, especially newborns.
However, the department emphasized that parents must also take personal responsibility for their children’s safety during clinic visits.
Efforts are being made to train staff to identify suspicious behavior and educate patients on basic safety protocols.
In the wake of these incidents, both clinic staff and visitors are encouraged to report any unusual activity immediately.
The Way Forward: Strengthening Community Awareness
The Gauteng Department of Health has called on communities to support awareness campaigns on child safety.
By working together, healthcare workers, parents, and local residents can create safer public spaces for children.
Authorities are also urging clinics to consider additional security measures, such as ID verification and surveillance improvements.
The goal is to make child abductions within healthcare facilities a thing of the past.
