Police believe a baby girl whose body was discovered on a shoreline in North Wales may have been in the water for several weeks. The newborn was found by a member of the public in Bangor, Gwynedd, on Sunday afternoon.
A post-mortem examination confirmed the child was a girl, and initial findings suggest she may have been in the sea for up to a few weeks, according to North Wales Police. Further examinations are continuing as investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding her death.
Appeal to mother
Superintendent Llinos Davies said: "We understand that the mother may be fearful of coming forward but we urge her to make contact with us. I'd like to reassure her that her welfare and safety is our utmost concern."
She added: "Anyone with concerns about a girl or a woman you think may have been pregnant or whose behaviour has been unusual or out of character over the past few months, including withdrawing from friends, family or social ties, please contact us. Please do the right thing to ensure this mother gets the health support she needs. All names received will be treated with the utmost discretion and can be eliminated as the mother without delay."
Investigation ongoing
Officers are keeping an open mind regarding where the baby entered the water and are seeking expert guidance on currents from oceanographers. Door-to-door enquiries are ongoing in the area where the body was discovered.
A police spokesperson confirmed that following an appeal earlier this week, a number of calls had been received from members of the public, and all calls would be treated seriously.
In a direct appeal to the mother, Fiona Giraud, director of midwifery and woman's service for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: "You may feel you have nowhere to turn, or that you cannot speak to anyone about what has happened. Please do not feel that you have to face this alone. We don't yet know all the circumstances surrounding your baby's death, but what is important right now is that we find you, make sure you are safe and ensure you receive any medical attention and support you may need."
She added: "I am asking you personally, please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you."
Those with information can contact police on 101, quoting Operation Melex, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Information can also be submitted via a public portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/60NWP26G07-PO1.
