The First Lady, Lordina Mahama, has called on prospective parents to follow proper legal channels when adopting, in the wake of a baby theft at the Mamprobi Polyclinic in Accra.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, February 18, Mrs. Mahama urged individuals and couples seeking to grow their families to work with accredited adoption agencies rather than resort to illegal means.
“We wish to encourage all persons genuinely seeking to build families through adoption to pursue the lawful path by engaging accredited adoption agencies and following the proper legal procedures,” the statement said.
Incident Details
The appeal follows an incident on Tuesday, February 17, when a 33-year-old woman, reportedly disguised as a nurse, allegedly stole a newborn from the facility shortly after a caesarean delivery. CCTV footage reportedly showed the suspect leaving the clinic carrying the baby in what appeared to be a sack.
Authorities later recovered the baby safely, and the suspect was arrested. The First Lady expressed relief at the outcome:
“The stolen baby from the Mamprobi Polyclinic has been safely recovered and reunited with her biological mother and family.”
She also commended the Ghana Police Service for their prompt response:
“Her Excellency, the First Lady, commends the Ghana Police Service for their swift and professional response in apprehending the suspect and ensuring the safe return of the baby to her family.”
Words of Caution
While sympathising with families struggling with fertility, Mrs. Mahama warned against allowing desperation to lead to criminal acts.
“While we empathise deeply with women and families facing challenges with conception, desperation must never be allowed to lead to such unconscionable acts,” she said.
She further urged health facilities to strengthen security to protect mothers and newborns:
“We further urge medical facilities and maternity homes to implement stringent security measures to adequately protect newborns and their mothers while under their care. The safety of every mother and child must be paramount.”
Police have confirmed the suspect remains in custody and is cooperating with ongoing investigations as authorities work to prevent similar incidents in health facilities nationwide.
