A two-month-old baby girl was forcibly snatched from her young sister’s lap in broad daylight in Gweru Central Business District (CBD), sending shockwaves through the community and prompting an urgent police appeal for public assistance.
The Midlands province police confirmed the disturbing details of the incident, describing a sequence of events that unfolded in the afternoon hours. According to authorities, the mother, 26-year-old Faith Jakaza, had just finished breastfeeding her infant daughter and stepped away for what she believed would be only a few minutes.
“On turning back, after a few minutes, the mother discovered the elder daughter no longer had the baby, saying the baby had been snatched away,” recounted Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, Midlands police spokesperson.
The child’s six-year-old sister, who was left momentarily in charge of her baby sibling, witnessed the terrifying abduction. Confused and terrified, she was unable to prevent the incident, leaving her mother in shock as the reality of the situation set in. The immediate aftermath was one of panic, frantic searching, and desperate appeals for help.
“Faith Jakaza is said to have screamed for help, alerting passers-by as she began a desperate search for her missing child. Her cries echoed through the CBD, a raw expression of a tragedy unfolding in broad daylight,” Inspector Mahoko said.
The incident has left residents in the area shaken, raising concerns over public safety and child security. Many local shoppers and business owners reportedly paused in horror as the young mother’s cries filled the streets, illustrating the sudden and brazen nature of the crime.
Brazen Daylight Abduction of Infant Sparks Fear in Gweru CBD
Authorities acted swiftly upon being notified, initiating a full-scale investigation to locate the infant and apprehend the perpetrator. Inspector Mahoko made a direct appeal to the public, urging anyone with information—no matter how minor—to come forward.
“We appeal for any information that can help in locating the culprit and recover the baby,” he said, emphasising the urgency of the matter.
The use of the term “recover” underscores the immediate and critical nature of the police operation, highlighting that every minute counts in ensuring the safe return of the infant. Investigators are following leads across the city, interviewing witnesses, and monitoring potential escape routes, while coordinating with surrounding communities in a bid to track the suspect.
The brazen nature of the abduction has left Gweru residents both alarmed and vigilant. Many locals expressed disbelief that such a crime could occur in broad daylight, highlighting concerns about public security and the vulnerability of children in urban areas. The event has prompted widespread discussions on social media and community forums about the need for increased awareness and protective measures for young children.
In response to the incident, the Midlands police issued a stern advisory to caregivers, urging them to maintain constant supervision over children, particularly infants and toddlers.
“On the same note, we also advise mothers or persons who have custody of babies and children to always keep them under close monitoring,” Inspector Mahoko said.
Authorities stressed that even a momentary lapse in vigilance can have devastating consequences, and that community members should report any suspicious activity immediately to help prevent similar incidents.
As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, hoping for a safe and speedy recovery of the baby girl. Police are leaving no stone unturned, conducting thorough inquiries and reviewing any available CCTV footage in the area.
The abduction has served as a sobering reminder of the risks children face, even in familiar urban environments, and underscores the importance of public vigilance and rapid law enforcement response. Community leaders have also called for increased awareness campaigns to educate parents and caregivers on child safety, reinforcing the need for collective responsibility in protecting the most vulnerable.
“The safety of children is paramount, and this incident demonstrates why constant vigilance is essential. We urge everyone to be alert and to assist authorities in any way they can,” Inspector Mahoko added.
The Gweru community continues to hope for a positive outcome as police work tirelessly to locate the infant. The case has highlighted both the bravery of the mother in alerting authorities and the critical role of community cooperation in ensuring children’s safety.
The shocking daylight abduction in Gweru CBD stands as a stark warning to parents, guardians, and the broader public: even brief moments of inattention can have life-altering consequences, and every community member has a role to play in safeguarding children. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward immediately to aid in the baby’s safe return.
Source- iHarare
