COPS are still trying to find the mum of a newborn baby boy who was found dead inside a black leather handbag and dumped in woodland nearly ten years ago.
The tragic discovery was made near Imperial Park, Coedkernew, Newport, in January 2016, sparking a major police appeal to trace the baby’s mother amid fears for her welfare.
Officers stressed the appeal is focused on concern for the woman’s wellbeing, not a criminal investigation.
But almost a decade later, Gwent Police say they have received no significant leads.
The infant’s body was discovered at around 2pm on January 29, 2016, after a passer-by came across the bag on wasteland close to an industrial estate.
Police sealed off the area and carried out detailed searches in the surrounding woodland.
The baby was wrapped in a white towel with the hand-written words “St Anne’s” along the edge, before being placed inside the black leather handbag.
Officers later confirmed the towel came from St Anne’s Hospice in Newport, although many similar towels were known to exist.
A post-mortem found the baby had reached, or nearly reached, full term.
The death was classed as unexplained, with detectives mainly worried about the mother’s physical and emotional state.
They believe she gave birth naturally and may have been alone.
At the time, Detective Inspector Judith Roberts said: “The anniversary may bring back painful memories and we want to ensure that she is offered the right support.
“Anyone with information is urged to get in touch. If you want to speak with us confidentially or anonymously that can be arranged.”
Police released a photo of an identical bag and a series of video appeals urging the mum to come forward.
In one video, a woman named Lucy said: “I’m part of the team that are trying to find out what happened to the baby in Newport.
“I’m really worried about the mum and want you to know that you can call or text me. I can offer you all the help you may need.”
She added: “I know you cared for your baby because you wrapped your little one in a towel. If you feel that you may be able to speak to me could you please call me.”
On Thursday, October 30, a police spokesman confirmed the child’s mother still has not been identified.
An inquest was later held in 2016, and the baby was cremated by order of the coroner.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Gwent Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously.
