SLL100,000 Reward Offered for Information on Missing Infant

A sense of tension and heartbreak enveloped the Ola During Children’s Hospital and the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital (PCMH) on Friday afternoon following the alarming abduction of a two-month-old infant from the children’s ward. This incident has generated widespread concern among medical staff, parents, and the general public, prompting an immediate response from both hospital authorities and government officials.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the infant was last observed around midday before inexplicably disappearing under unclear circumstances. The child’s parents, devastated by this sudden event, are appealing to the public for assistance in locating their baby.

In a joint press release issued by the hospital management, the Sierra Leone Nurses Association (SLNA), and the Sierra Leone Midwives Association (SLMA), a reward of NLe 100,000 (One Hundred Thousand New Leones, equivalent to 100 million Old Leones) has been announced for anyone providing credible information leading to the safe recovery of the child.

“We are deeply saddened by this incident. Our top priority is to reunite the child with their family,” the statement read. “We urge the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activities or information that could aid this investigation.”

The hospital’s security protocols are currently under intense scrutiny, with authorities working to determine how such an incident could occur in what is intended to be a secure environment for vulnerable children and new mothers.

During a weekly press briefing at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on Tuesday, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, confirmed that several hospital staff, including nurses, cleaners, and security personnel who were on duty at the time of the abduction, are being questioned by the Sierra Leone Police. Investigations are ongoing to establish accountability and uncover any negligence or potential complicity in the incident.

“This is a national concern,” Dr. Mahoi stated. “No family should endure the trauma of losing a child in a place that should offer safety and care. We are taking all necessary measures to ensure justice is served and that this child is found.”

The Sierra Leone Police are urging members of the public who may have seen or heard anything unusual at the time of the incident to come forward. Tip-offs can be made anonymously through police hotlines.

As the search continues, the entire nation remains hopeful for the safe return of the missing baby. Meanwhile, child protection agencies and civil society groups have called for a review of hospital security measures nationwide to prevent such tragic events from occurring again.