A newborn male infant was found alive and unharmed outside a home in Zastron early on Friday, 25 September. The child, estimated to be four days old, was discovered wrapped in a white blanket and wearing a blue beanie at about 06:00 by homeowner Malitaba Jansen, who heard him crying in the yard.
Immediate response and current status
The baby was taken for medical assessment at Embekweni Hospital and has since been placed in the care of social workers, the Free State provincial department of health said. Police are investigating the circumstances and are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in locating the infant’s mother.
| Key event | Details |
|---|---|
| Discovery | About 06:00 on 25 September, outside a property in George Street, Zastron |
| Condition | Alive and unharmed; wrapped in a white blanket, wearing a blue beanie |
| Medical care | Examined at Embekweni Hospital; placed with social workers |
| Investigation | SAPS investigating; public asked to provide information |
Authorities ask for compassion and offer help
Provincial health officials appealed to the public to treat the incident with sensitivity, stressing that support services exist for pregnant women and parents who feel they cannot cope. A handwritten note found at the scene reportedly indicated the mother felt unable to care for the child, though police continue to investigate that claim.
“The provincial department of health is relieved that the little boy found in Zastron is safe,” said Free State health spokesperson Mondli Mvambi.
Health officials highlighted several avenues for confidential assistance for people in crisis, including clinics, hospitals, social workers and child-protection organisations. They also pointed to Childline (116) for immediate, private counselling and guidance. In emergencies, people were reminded to call 112 for medical services or 10111 for the police.
What authorities are asking from the public
Investigators have appealed for anyone with information about the incident or the infant’s family to come forward. While details remain under inquiry, the department urged the community to respect the family’s privacy and avoid speculation.
Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi said the response to such incidents should be guided by understanding rather than blame as officials work to establish the full facts.
- Contact Childline on 116 for confidential support and advice.
- In an emergency, call 112 for ambulance services or 10111 for the police.
- Approach local clinics or hospitals to speak with a social worker if you are pregnant or struggling to care for a child.
Local impact and broader context
Abandonment of infants is both a criminal matter and a child-protection crisis. In this case, the quick action of a homeowner in Zastron and timely medical assessment ensured the baby’s immediate safety. The longer-term welfare of the child will be managed by social services while SAPS continues its investigation to determine the circumstances and locate the mother.
The provincial department’s messaging underscores the dual goals of protecting children and connecting vulnerable parents with support that might prevent similar incidents. Officials have urged those who feel overwhelmed to make use of available services rather than take irreversible actions.
As the investigation proceeds, authorities are asking for any relevant information from the public and emphasising that assistance is available to anyone in the region facing a crisis related to pregnancy or childcare.
Readers with information about the Zastron incident are asked to contact their nearest police station or provide tips to SAPS through the usual crime-reporting channels.
