The Ghana Police Service has apprehended a 33-year-old woman in connection with the alleged abduction of a four-day-old baby boy from the postnatal ward of Mamprobi Hospital in Accra.
The suspect, identified as Latifa Salifu, a cloth seller by profession, was taken into custody at approximately 3:40 a.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. She was found in possession of a baby who is believed to be the missing child. The arrest was disclosed during a press briefing held at the Dansoman Divisional Police Headquarters.
According to the Accra Regional Police Command, the incident was first reported on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at around 10:00 a.m. by Abigail Dzikunu and Henrietta Abbey Blessed. The complainants informed police that an unidentified woman, disguised as a nurse, had taken the baby from the postnatal ward under false pretenses.
The baby’s mother, Precious Ankomah, recounted to police that she gave birth to her son on Friday, February 14, 2026. She stated that a woman dressed in a peach-colored nurse’s uniform removed her baby from the ward, claiming it was for medical treatment. The suspect never returned with the child.
Upon receiving the report, police officers promptly visited the hospital to gather statements and launched an intensive search for the suspect with support from the public. Their efforts culminated in Ms. Salifu's arrest.
During her interrogation, Ms. Salifu alleged that she had delivered a baby at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital but had been discharged due to a shortage of beds. However, police investigations revealed no records to substantiate her claim.
The baby was later identified by his mother through a distinctive birthmark on his leg and has since been reunited with her. Authorities confirmed that the child has been returned to hospital care for medical evaluation and safekeeping.
Ms. Salifu remains in police custody as investigations continue. She is expected to be arraigned before court tomorrow. The police further disclosed that they are reviewing video evidence circulating on social media, including CCTV footage from relevant locations. Additional updates will be provided to the public as the investigation progresses.
The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice is served and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
