The body of a newborn baby has been discovered on the edge of the Menai Strait at Bangor, prompting an urgent police appeal to find the child's mother, with officers pleading: "you don't have to face this alone."
The discovery was made on Sunday afternoon by a member of the public walking along the coastline near Siliwen Road. The passer-by alerted police after finding the body of a newborn infant, and an investigation was launched.
Searches continue for the mother
Extensive searches are ongoing to trace the mother, who remains unidentified. Police are working with the health board and other agencies, and are withholding additional details about the baby at this time. A post-mortem is scheduled to be carried out by Home Office pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers on Wednesday afternoon.
Officers have been joined by the Coastguard as searches are conducted along the waterfront and surrounding areas, with a substantial police cordon established between Siliwen Road and the Menai Strait. Door-to-door enquiries are being carried out and CCTV footage in the area is being examined.
Police and health board make direct plea
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."
In a direct appeal to the mother, she said: "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 from the public
Detective Sergeant Kelly Wynne said: "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."
Bangor residents may notice a heightened police presence in the locality over the coming days as officers conduct additional investigations.
Police 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.
