Attempted baby abduction at Dora Nginza Hospital

THE Health & Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (Hospersa) has revealed details of how two women, who attempted to abduct two premature newborn babies from Dora Nginza Hospital in the Eastern Cape, tried to escape with the infants.

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

According to the union, the two suspects were caught after a coordinated effort to evade hospital security, ultimately resulting in a tragic but preventable incident.

Reports indicate that the women, carrying a large bag, attempted to gain access to the maternity building. When a security guard stationed at the entrance questioned their presence, they claimed to be there to breastfeed. One of the women managed to evade the guard and gain entry to the neonatal ward with the bag. CCTV footage later revealed that one of the women used a different exit door, suggesting the act was premeditated and well-planned.

The union commended the efforts that led to the infants’ safe return and called for the justice system to ensure swift and firm action against those responsible.

“This devastating incident underscores the tragic consequences of gross negligence and the longstanding failure to prioritise security in our public hospitals,” said Hospersa in a statement.