BULAWAYO – Police in Bulawayo have launched a massive manhunt for a suspect following the kidnapping of a four-month-old baby girl. The incident, orchestrated through what appears to be a deceptive social media ploy, occurred in the New Parklands suburb.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed that a 26-year-old mother was lured into a trap through a WhatsApp channel, resulting in the disappearance of her infant.
The mother, who had joined a WhatsApp channel called Idale Labomama approximately four months ago, encountered a message on December 27th offering free children’s clothing to mothers in need.
“She contacted the number and communicated with an unknown accused person who identified herself only as MaNdlovu of Cowdray Park,” said Insp Msebele. “The suspect offered to personally deliver the clothes to the complainant’s residence, and directions were provided.”
Two days later, on December 29th, the suspect contacted the mother again, informing her that the clothes would be delivered that same day.
According to Insp Msebele, the mother was instructed to wait at the corner of Harare Road and Cecil Avenue in Parklands at approximately 1PM to collect the items.
Unaware of the potential danger, the mother, carrying one of her twin babies, left the four-month-old victim asleep in the bedroom. She also left behind her four-year-old daughter, who was playing outside the house, and proceeded to the designated meeting point.
However, the promised delivery never materialised. After waiting for approximately 15 minutes, the mother received a message stating that someone identified only as “Lo” had been sent to deliver the clothes. Despite this, no one arrived.
“When the complainant returned home, she discovered that her four-month-old baby was missing. A police report was immediately made,” said Insp Msebele.
The police are now appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect and the safe return of the missing baby.
“We appeal to anyone with information that may assist in locating the accused person or the child to report to the nearest police station,” said Insp Msebele.
In light of this disturbing incident, Insp Msebele issued a stern warning to parents and caregivers, urging them to exercise extreme caution when interacting with strangers online.
“We strongly urge mothers and caregivers to exercise extreme caution when dealing with people they meet online. Avoid oversharing sensitive personal information, as this exposes both parents and children to serious risk,” she said.
The case highlights the potential dangers of social media interactions and the importance of vigilance when dealing with unknown individuals. The police investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working tirelessly to locate the missing baby and bring the perpetrator to justice. The focus remains on the safe return of the infant and ensuring the safety of other children in the community.
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