The shoreline of the Menai Strait near Siliwen Road in Bangor (Image: NC)
Police have launched an urgent appeal following the discovery of a newborn baby’s body on the edge of the Menai Strait at Bangor in Wales. The tragic discovery was made by a member of the public walking along the shoreline near Siliwen Road shortly before 5pm on Sunday, September 27.
An investigation has now been launched, with extensive searches underway to find the baby’s mother amid serious concerns for her health and wellbeing. North Wales Police officers are working alongside the Coastguard, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and other organisations as they try to establish the circumstances surrounding the baby’s death. A large police cordon has been put in place between Siliwen Road and the Menai Strait, while officers are carrying out house-to-house enquiries and reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area. A post-mortem examination is due to be carried out by Home Office pathologist Dr Brian Rodgers on Wednesday afternoon.
A large police cordon is in place between Siliwen Road and the Menai Strait following the discovery (Image: Google)
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 there were “real concerns” for the mother’s health and appealed directly for her to seek help.
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.”
Detective Sergeant Kelly Wynne said police were also appealing to the baby’s father and anyone who may know the identity of the mother.
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She 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.”
Residents have been warned they may see an increased police presence around Bangor in the coming days as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information or immediate concerns has been urged to contact North Wales Police on 101, quoting Operation Melex. Information can also be provided through the force’s Major Incident Public Portal or anonymously through Crimestoppers.