In a deeply troubling development, two midwives from the East Gonja District Hospital in Salaga have been remanded into police custody following allegations of their involvement in the disappearance of a newborn from the facility. The incident, which has sent shockwaves across the region, is currently under investigation by law enforcement authorities and health officials.
The accused individuals, identified as 52-year-old Frank Atanga and 32-year-old Mariam Mohammed, appeared before Her Honour Afua Srakuba at the Tamale Circuit Court. They have been charged with conspiracy to steal and abduction in connection to the missing infant. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges leveled against them.
The court has ordered that the two suspects remain in police custody for a period of one week as investigations continue. The case has been adjourned to June 18, 2026, for further proceedings.
The Disappearance of the Newborn
The incident reportedly occurred on June 10, 2026, when the newborn vanished from the East Gonja District Hospital under mysterious circumstances. The disappearance has raised significant concerns about security protocols within healthcare facilities and has left the affected family distraught.
In response to the incident, the Savannah Regional Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a statement describing the situation as both "unfortunate and disturbing." According to Dr. John Ekow Otoo, Savannah Regional Director of Health Service, hospital authorities immediately initiated a thorough search of the premises upon learning of the baby's disappearance. Unfortunately, these efforts did not yield any results.
Ongoing Investigations and Support
Dr. Otoo emphasized that the Directorate is working closely with hospital management, security personnel, and the Ghana Police Service to uncover the circumstances surrounding the baby's disappearance. The ultimate goal remains to locate and safely return the child to its family.
The Savannah Regional Health Directorate has also expressed its heartfelt sympathy to the affected family during this difficult time. In its statement, it assured the family that they would receive continued support as investigations progress.
A Call for Public Assistance
In light of the gravity of this incident, the Ghana Health Service has appealed to members of the public for any information that could assist in locating the missing newborn. Citizens are encouraged to report any relevant information to their nearest police station, the Regional Health Directorate, or hospital authorities. The GHS has assured that all information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality.
A Broader Concern
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for stringent security measures within healthcare facilities to safeguard vulnerable patients, particularly newborns. It also highlights the importance of community involvement in addressing such crises. As investigations unfold, it is hoped that justice will be served and that measures will be put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The nation watches closely as authorities work tirelessly to resolve this distressing case and reunite the missing child with their family. Our thoughts remain with all those affected by this tragic situation.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
