Three children made a shocking discovery in Suva, finding the body of a newborn baby abandoned in a creek outside the city, as reported by The Fiji Times. The baby girl, who was still alive when discovered around 8:30 AM behind the Wailada Industrial Subdivision in Lami on May 7, 1997, later succumbed to her condition.

The children, identified as Niko Verekauta, 10, Kini Murimurivalu, 8, and Peni Verekauta, 12, initially mistook the infant for a doll. Upon closer inspection, they found the baby was shivering and unresponsive, prompting them to seek help from adults nearby. Unfortunately, by the time they returned, the baby had passed away.

Described as full-term, the baby was wrapped in red trousers and a white shirt, with blood still present on her body. The placenta was found discarded nearby, approximately half a meter from where the baby was lying. Following the discovery, local villagers alerted security personnel at a nearby terminal, who subsequently contacted the police.

Authorities have since confirmed that the baby appeared to have been dumped shortly after birth, and ongoing efforts are in place to locate her mother. Police investigations suggest that, while the birth seemed normal, the mother might require medical assistance. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of pressing charges if the mother is found.

This heart-wrenching incident reflects broader concerns about child welfare and the protection of vulnerable individuals within the community. Similar recent cases involving abandoned infants have underscored the urgent need for awareness, support systems, and community vigilance to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. The situation serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of nurturing a supportive environment for children, ultimately fostering a safer community for everyone.

In summary, while the finding of this newborn is tragic, the community’s response and ongoing police investigations offer hope for accountability and increased vigilance regarding vulnerable children.