The police in Musina are appealing to community members to help them trace the mother of a two-day-old baby boy, who was found covered with a black plastic refuse bag and abandoned near the Musina Civic Centre. The baby is now receiving special care at the Musina Hospital.

The baby was discovered by a domestic worker who was on her way to work. The baby was so lucky to be found alive after a night of heavy, cold winds and showers that characterized Monday night.

Ms Eva Ramavhoya (23), who discovered the baby, said: “I was on my way to work when I heard a baby crying. Upon listening very closely, I followed the sound until it leads me to a shrub next to the pavement. I went nearer and saw a black, plastic refuse bag. I got the shock of my life when opened the plastic bag and I saw a neatly dressed baby.”

Ramavhoya said it was clear that the baby had been abandoned on Monday night as it looked hungry and very weak. “When I picked him up, he started sucking his fingers which shows that he was very hungry. I then rushed to the Civic Centre and informed the municipal officials, who then informed the police.”

Captain Sydney Ringane of the Musina police said they were investigating a case of concealment of birth. He urged community members to assist the police in tracing the mother who had abandoned the baby.