A baby girl whose body was discovered on the coastline in Wales may have been in the water for several weeks, according to police. Detectives are searching for the mother after the infant was found by a passerby in Bangor, Gwynedd, on Sunday afternoon.
Post-mortem findings
A post-mortem examination confirmed that the baby was a girl and initial findings suggest she could have been in the water for up to a few weeks, a representative for North Wales Police stated. The force announced that further tests are currently being conducted.
Police are believed to be keeping an open mind about where the baby entered the water and are seeking advice on currents from oceanographers. Door-to-door inquiries are ongoing in the area where the body was discovered.
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."
Health board plea
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.
"I am asking you personally, please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you."
A spokesperson for the force stated that following an appeal earlier this week, several calls had been received from members of the public. All calls will be taken seriously, the police confirmed.
Anyone with information can contact the police on 101, quoting Operation Melex, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Information can also be left on a public portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/60NWP26G07-PO1.
