Discovery of Abandoned Infant
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has reported the recovery of a one-day-old baby who was found abandoned near Crush Rock, behind an unfinished Red Bricks Market in the Mpape area of Abuja. This incident came to light following a distress call received by the police on Friday morning around 10:00 AM.
Immediate Response and Rescue
Officers from the Juvenile and Women Care Section (JWC) of Mpape Division responded swiftly to the call and discovered the baby wrapped in a cloth. The infant was immediately taken to Mpape Primary Health Care Center where medical staff confirmed that the baby was in stable condition.
Arrest of the Mother
Subsequent to community tips, the police arrested Khadija Ali, identified as the mother of the abandoned child. During her interrogation, Ali admitted to abandoning the baby, explaining her action was due to her inability to provide care, exacerbated by her husband’s abandonment.
Legal and Welfare Actions
The FCT Police Command has condemned the act of child abandonment and reiterated its dedication to safeguarding the vulnerable. The rescued newborn will be transferred to the Department of Social Welfare for appropriate care. Meanwhile, Khadija Ali is set to be prosecuted under sections 14 and 16 of the Child Rights Act (CRA) 2003 once the investigation is completed.
Public Appreciation and Call for Vigilance
The police command expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation in this case and urged residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activities or emergencies to the provided emergency lines, emphasizing community involvement in maintaining safety.
