Newborn baby found abandoned at Khayelitsha dumping site
This is where the infant was found in a dumping site in Khayelitsha this morning.
Image: siyavuya khaya
A newborn baby was found dead at a dumping site near a bus stop on Jafta Masemola Road, next to Khwezi Park in Khayelitsha, in a shocking incident that has left the community distressed.
Khayelitsha police station spokesperson Constable Asanda Daweti said police are aware of the incident, and a murder case has been opened. She said officers responded after the infant was discovered at the site.
She said the child is believed to be a newborn and was found abandoned at the dumping area. She said the circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation.
She said no arrests have been made at this stage. She said police are following up on all available leads and have appealed to anyone with information to come forward.
These are some of the community leaders who found the baby dumped in a dumping site and alerted law enforcement agencies about their shocking discovery.
Image: siyavuya khaya
PR councillor Phindile George said they are shocked and deeply disappointed to wake up to such a cruel incident. He said the discovery has left many residents traumatised and searching for answers.
He said the baby was left in an undignified manner at a dumping site, and this is something that no community should ever experience. He said the condition in which the infant was found has heightened concern about the safety and well-being of vulnerable children.
“This is a painful reminder of the challenges faced by some members of our community, especially young mothers who may feel overwhelmed or unsupported,” he said. Mr George said more needs to be done to ensure that people in crisis are able to access help.
“We are pleading with young mothers who feel unable to care for their babies to seek assistance rather than resorting to abandonment. There are organisations and services that can provide guidance, counselling and support," he said.
Mr George said some people are willing to adopt and give these children a loving home. He said adoption offers a humane and responsible alternative for those who cannot raise a child.
“A child is a gift from God, and abandoning a baby is not the only solution," he said. Mr George said communities, families, and authorities must work together to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future."
He said the incident highlights the urgent need for increased awareness around available social services, including safe adoption options and support for vulnerable parents.
He said strengthening community outreach programmes could play a critical role in preventing such tragedies.
Police investigations are ongoing.