Three young children made a shocking discovery in Suva when they found the body of a newborn baby girl abandoned in a creek on May 7, 1997. This tragic incident took place around 8:30 AM behind the Wailada Industrial Subdivision in Lami, as reported by The Fiji Times.

The children—Niko Verekauta (10), Kini Murimurivalu (8), and Peni Verekauta (12)—initially mistook the infant for a doll. Upon closer inspection, they realized the baby was alive but unresponsive and shivering. They immediately ran to alert an adult nearby, but sadly, when they returned moments later, the baby had already passed away.

The baby was discovered wrapped in red trousers and a white shirt, her body showing signs of blood. Nearby, the placenta was carelessly discarded just half a meter away. After the children informed them, local villagers quickly alerted security personnel at a nearby terminal, who then contacted the police.

Authorities later confirmed that the baby was full-term and had likely been abandoned shortly after birth. Ongoing efforts are being made to locate the mother, who may need medical assistance after the delivery. While charges against her remain a possibility, the authorities’ primary focus is to identify and assist her.

This heart-wrenching incident sheds light on broader concerns regarding child welfare within the community. It highlights the urgent need for support systems and community vigilance to protect vulnerable individuals, especially children. Despite the tragic nature of this event, the swift response from the community emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the welfare of at-risk children.

As investigations continue, there is hope that this incident will inspire greater awareness and proactive measures within the community. By fostering an environment that prioritizes the safety and well-being of children, residents can unite to prevent similar occurrences from happening in the future, ultimately creating a more supportive and secure environment for all children.