A shocking case involving a 13-year-old girl who gave birth mid-air aboard a rescue helicopter has triggered a full-scale police manhunt for the man responsible for her pregnancy. The incident, which occurred earlier this month, has sparked outrage across the nation and raised serious questions about child protection and safeguarding.
The teenager, whose identity is being protected for legal reasons, experienced birth complications that necessitated an emergency airlift from Maphisa Hospital to United Bulawayo Hospitals. The Helidrive National Air Rescue Service was called in to perform the high-stakes evacuation.
Just seven minutes into the flight, the rescue chopper was transformed into a makeshift maternity ward as a team of medics delivered the baby successfully high above Matabeleland.
Dr Marshall Kahari, the doctor who led the airborne procedure, described the moment as a race against time. “It was delicate, but everything went according to plan. We had to act fast,” he said, highlighting the precision and calm required to ensure the safety of both mother and child.
While both the newborn and the young mother are now reported to be in stable condition, the incident has left the nation shaken. Police are now intensifying their efforts to apprehend the man responsible for the pregnancy.
Matabeleland South police spokesperson Inspector Chiratidzo Dube confirmed that investigations are already in full swing. “We are thoroughly investigating the matter. This includes identifying and interviewing witnesses to gather evidence. Our objective is to apprehend the suspect and ensure the victim receives the support and justice she deserves,” said Insp Dube.
Police sources revealed that the minor had been under the radar until complications from her pregnancy forced her into hospital, eventually leading to the high-stakes helicopter evacuation. Investigators are now meticulously combing through the girl’s background and community to identify the predator responsible.
The case has sparked outrage across the province and the country, with calls for swift justice growing louder by the day. Community leaders, rights groups, and health officials have expressed shock and disgust that such a young child could not only fall pregnant but be subjected to life-threatening complications without authorities being alerted earlier.
“This is not just a crime. It’s a tragedy,” said a women’s rights advocate based in Gwanda. “That child should have been in school, not a helicopter delivering a baby. Someone must answer for this.”
Police have appealed to the public for any information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. The investigation is ongoing.
Follow @MyZimbabweNews
