By Baraka John
Authorities in Western Equatoria State have arrested a woman accused of abducting a one-month-old baby who went missing in Asanza Boma, Yambio County.
Yambio County Commissioner Angelo Bakote confirmed on Wednesday that security forces successfully tracked down and rescued the infant from a residential area in Sug-Siro, Yambio, following days of search operations.
Bakote said the baby was found in the suspect’s custody and had reportedly been fed with gripe water during the period of disappearance. He added that the suspect is now in police custody as investigations continue.
“The child has been taken to Yambio State Hospital for medical attention. We urge mothers and caregivers to take extra care of newborns and avoid leaving them unattended,” he said.
Medical officials at Yambio State Hospital confirmed that the infant has been admitted for treatment and a thorough medical evaluation. Dr. Benai Juma, the Acting Medical Director, said specialists are monitoring the child’s condition.
“We urge mothers to take extra care of their children and avoid leaving newborns unattended. Such incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance,” Bakote said.
Family members confirmed the baby’s safe recovery and expressed gratitude to the community, security agencies, and government authorities for their swift response. They also noted that both the baby and the mother are currently receiving care at the hospital.
“The child was found with a woman in Sug-Siro. We appreciate the community, the government, and the security agencies for bringing back our baby.
Authorities said the child was recovered after a week-long search following the initial report of disappearance. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.