Police have launched an urgent appeal for information after a newborn baby girl was found in a street in London — wrapped in a towel and dumped in a shopping bag in sub-zero temperatures.
The Metropolitan Police says a member of the public walking their dog found the child at the junction of Greenway and High Street South in Newham in the east end of the capital at 9.13pm on Thursday night.
Officers say the girl was wrapped in a towel and placed in a shopping bag before being abandoned; they are now hoping her mother will come forward, having expressed concerns for her welfare.
Temperatures plunged to at least minus 6C in London last night – but miraculously, the girl was unharmed and is in the care of local medics.
The Borough of Newham Council have been contacted by the Met with regards to safeguarding the child in the short term.
The newborn baby girl was found dumped in a shopping bag at the junction of Greenway and High Street South in Newham, east London (file photo)
Members of the public who may know the girl and may be able to identify her mother have been urged to contact the police at the earliest possible opportunity.
Chief Superintendent Simon Crick, who leads policing in Newham, praised the member of the public who discovered the newborn girl in the middle of the street.
He said: ‘Thinking fast, that person kept the baby girl warm until London Ambulance Service paramedics arrived and checked her over before taking her to hospital.
‘I am delighted to report that she wasn’t injured in any way and is safe and well in the care of hospital staff.
‘I am grateful to the members of the public who stayed at the scene to speak with officers and medics – your actions contributed to saving the baby’s life.’
Ch Supt Crick has urged the mother to come forward. It has asked the public to call 999, rather than 101, with any information pertaining to her welfare.
He continued: ‘We are extremely concerned for her welfare as she will have been through a traumatic ordeal and will be in need of immediate medical attention following the birth.
‘Trained medics and specialist officers are ready to support her and we urge her to get in touch by phone or walk in to the nearest hospital or police station.
‘If you are the baby’s mother please know that your daughter is well, no matter what your circumstances please do seek help by dialling 999.’
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Metropolitan Police on 999, quoting reference CAD 6876/18 Jan.
The Borough of Newham Council was contacted for comment.
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