The body of a newborn baby has been found on the shoreline of the Menai Strait in Bangor, prompting a major police investigation and an urgent appeal to trace the child's mother.
The baby was discovered by a member of the public walking near Siliwen Road on Sunday afternoon. After contacting police, officers launched an inquiry and began extensive searches of the surrounding coastline.
Investigation and search efforts
Detectives are working with health officials and partner agencies to identify and locate the mother, who has not yet been found. Authorities have not released further details about the baby.
A post-mortem examination is due to be carried out on Wednesday by Home Office pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers as investigators seek to establish the circumstances surrounding the death. Officers have been supported by the Coastguard as searches continue along the shoreline and surrounding areas, with a substantial police cordon established between Siliwen Road and the Menai Strait. They are also conducting door-to-door enquiries and examining CCTV footage from the vicinity.
Appeals to the mother
A North Wales Police spokesperson said: "We were contacted by a member of the public reporting the discovery of the body of a newborn baby along the shoreline near the Siliwen Road area shortly before 5pm on Sunday 27th September. We are working closely with partners to establish the circumstances."
Fiona Giraud, Director of Midwifery and Women's Services for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: "We have real concerns for the health of the mother. We recognise that she is likely to be extremely vulnerable. She may be fearful of seeking the support she needs through fear of identifying herself."
Speaking directly to the mother, she added: "First, I want you to know that our immediate concern is for your health, safety and wellbeing. We recognise that you may be feeling frightened, overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next. 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. I am asking you personally, to please get in touch with us. You can speak to a healthcare professional, approach a police officer or attend a police station. If you are watching or listening to this appeal, please know that we want to hear from you. Please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you."
Public assistance requested
Detective Sergeant Kelly Wynne stated: "We are concerned the baby's mother may not be in a position to reach out for support, so we are appealing directly to her, the father and those who may have knowledge, such as friends, family, neighbours or colleagues. If you have any information regarding a woman or girl 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. We appreciate coming forward is difficult, but inaction is not an option."
"The mother desperately needs help. Anyone with information, we need you to 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."
Those living in Bangor can expect to notice a heightened police presence across the locality over the coming days as investigations continue. Officers confirmed: "If you have any immediate concerns, please contact us on 101, quoting Operation Melex. A Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been created where anyone with information that could help our enquiries can directly contact police. People can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously. Alternatively, contact the health board's Peoples Enquiry and resolution service between Monday-Friday 10am-4pm on 03000 851 234."
