Peter Matika
Zimpapers Writer
POLICE in Bulawayo have launched a manhunt for an unknown suspect who kidnapped a four-month-old baby girl in a chilling case reportedly orchestrated through a deceptive social media ploy.
The incident occurred in New Parklands and has triggered an urgent police hunt for an unknown suspect who lured the infant’s mother using a WhatsApp channel that purported to offer free children’s clothing.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, said the baby’s 26-year-old mother had joined a WhatsApp channel called “Idale Labomama” about four months ago.
On December 27, she saw a message claiming that mothers in need of children’s clothes should contact a supplied number.
“She contacted the number and communicated with an unknown accused person who identified herself only as MaNdlovu of Cowdray Park.
“The suspect offered to personally deliver the clothes to the complainant’s residence and directions were provided,” said Insp Msebele.
Two days later, at around 6am, on December 29, the suspect informed the mother that the clothes would be delivered that same day.
Insp Msebele said at about 1pm, the complainant was instructed to wait at the corner of Harare Road and Cecil Avenue in Parklands to collect the items.
Unaware of the danger lurking behind the digital exchange, the mother carried one of her twins, leaving the four-month-old victim asleep in the bedroom and walked to the designated meeting point.
She also left behind her four-year-old daughter, who was playing outside the house. The meeting, however, never happened.
After waiting for about 15 minutes, the mother received a message stating that someone identified only as “Lo” had been sent to deliver the clothes. No one arrived.
“When the complainant returned home, she discovered that her four-month-old baby was missing.
“A police report was immediately made,” said Insp Msebele.
Police have since launched investigations and are appealing to members of the public for information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect and the recovery of the missing baby.
“We appeal to anyone with information that may assist in locating the accused person or the child to report to the nearest police station,” said Insp Msebele.
She also issued a stern warning to parents and caregivers against trusting strangers met through social media platforms.
“We strongly urge mothers and caregivers to exercise extreme caution when dealing with people they meet online.
“Avoid over-sharing sensitive personal information, as this exposes both parents and children to serious risk,” she said.
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