Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
27 June 2025 | 11:45 CAT

📷 Infant abductions at Gauteng clinics spark urgent safety warnings. Image Credits: SABC-News-Baby-Birth-R-293×169

Two alarming incidents involving the abduction of infants at public healthcare facilities in Gauteng have prompted the provincial Department of Health to issue a stern warning to parents and guardians.

Speaking to Radio Islam, department spokesperson Motlatale Modiba confirmed that the babies, a one-month-old and a three-day-old, were abducted in two separate incidents but safely recovered thanks to swift action, CCTV surveillance, and coordination with SAPS.

The first incident took place on 12 May at Alexandra Community Health Centre when a mother briefly stepped away and left her baby in the care of a stranger in the outpatient department. “The baby was taken by someone the mother had just met,” Modiba said. The second incident occurred on 23 June at Winnieman Direct Clinic in California, where a mother left her newborn on a changing table. An unknown woman offered to help but disappeared with the infant.

Both babies were later found unharmed. “Fortunately, in both cases, we had CCTV footage that enabled us to identify and trace the individuals,” Modiba explained. “The police circulated the images and worked swiftly to reunite the babies with their families.”

Although the motivation behind the abductions remains unclear, Modiba said the department has handed the cases over to SAPS for further investigation. “There’s no valid reason why someone would leave with a child they were simply asked to watch for a minute,” he noted. “We’re treating these as abduction cases until proven otherwise.”

The department is now urging parents to remain vigilant. “You cannot leave your child with a stranger, no matter how kind they appear,” Modiba warned. “Rather leave your baby with verified healthcare officials who are traceable and accountable.”

When asked whether all community clinics in Gauteng are equipped with surveillance, Modiba assured that CCTV systems are standard across most facilities. “It’s part of our commitment to improving safety in public healthcare spaces,” he said.

As the province awaits a formal SAPS report on both incidents, Modiba emphasised the importance of public awareness. “We want to prevent any further cases. The safety of children in our care facilities is paramount.”

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Motlatale Modiba.