A baby girl whose body was discovered on the coastline in Wales may have been in the water for weeks, police have said. Detectives are continuing their search for the mother after a member of the public found the baby's body in Bangor, Gwynedd, on Sunday afternoon.
Post-mortem findings
A post-mortem examination revealed the baby was a girl, with initial findings suggesting she may have been in the water for up to a few weeks, a North Wales Police spokesperson said. The force confirmed that further tests are currently being carried out.
Appeal to the 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."
"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. I understand that this is a terribly sad incident for the community and I am grateful for the overwhelming support and assistance that we have received so far."
Investigation ongoing
Officers are believed to be keeping an open mind regarding where the baby entered the water, and are seeking expert guidance on tidal currents from oceanographers. Door-to-door enquiries are ongoing in the area where the body was discovered.
A force spokesman confirmed that following an appeal earlier this week, a number of calls had been received from members of the public. Police say all calls will be treated seriously.
In a direct appeal to the mother, director of midwifery and woman's service for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Fiona Giraud, 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. I am asking you personally, please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you."
Anyone with information is urged to 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.
