Newborn baby kidnapped in Bellville shopping centre

Police have appealed to the public for assistance in locating a woman who allegedly kidnapped a 10-day-old baby at Middestad Mall in Bellville

Baby Mogamat Imaad Shamar was taken away from her mother on Saturday, June 28.

“The complainant indicates that she visited the mentioned shopping centre on Saturday with her 10-day-old baby. When she became nauseous, she went to the bathroom and left the child with the person who was with her. 

“Upon her return, the person of interest and the baby were missing,” said Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, police spokesperson.

He added that the Bellville Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit is investigating a case of kidnapping.

The Western Cape Missing Persons Unit (WCMPU) reported that the baby was taken by a woman known as 'Chivon,' who had approached the mother before the birth, claiming to represent an organisation that supports young mothers with counselling and care packages

"Chivon took the mom for something to eat, and the mother then felt sick and went to the bathroom. When she came out of the bathroom, "Chivon" was gone with the baby,” the organisation said in a statement. 

The baby was last seen dressed in a white vest, a white crawler with cars on it, and a blue blanket.

A public appeal is made to anyone with information to call Crime Stop on 08600 10111