The body of a newborn baby has been discovered on the banks of the Menai Strait in Bangor. The find was made on Sunday afternoon by a member of the public walking along the coastline near Siliwen Road, who alerted police and prompted an immediate investigation.
Search for the mother
Extensive searches are under way to trace the mother, who has yet to be identified. Officers are working alongside the local health board and other agencies, though further details about the baby are not being disclosed at this time. Home Office pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers is scheduled to carry out a post-mortem on the baby's body on Wednesday afternoon.
Coastguard teams have joined police in scouring the shoreline and surrounding area, with a substantial police cordon established between Siliwen Road and the Menai Strait, reports North Wales Live. Authorities are also conducting door-to-door enquiries and examining CCTV footage from the area.
Police and health board appeal
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, expressed: "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."
Addressing the mother directly, she continued: "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."
Appeal for information
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."
People living in Bangor might notice a heightened police presence over the coming days as officers continue their investigation. Authorities added: "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."
