A trader accused of stealing a four-day-old baby from Mamprobi Polyclinic in Accra has been remanded into custody by a Circuit Court sitting at the Police Headquarters.
Lalifa Salifu appeared before the court but her plea was not taken after prosecutors told the judge that investigations are still ongoing. She has been provisionally charged with child stealing.
Prosecutors told the court that the case may involve more than one person. According to the prosecution, it does not make sense that the accused, who has two children aged seven and nine, would allegedly steal another baby on her own. They described the matter as a possible syndicate operation.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, shortly after a woman delivered a baby boy through cesarean section at the Mamprobi Polyclinic. Family members say what should have been a moment of joy quickly turned into fear and confusion when the newborn could not be found.
According to the Ghana Police Service, the suspect allegedly disguised herself as a nurse before taking the baby from the facility. CCTV footage from the clinic reportedly showed a woman carrying the newborn and leaving the premises with what appeared to be a sack.
The disappearance sparked panic at the hospital, with staff and relatives searching frantically while police were alerted. Officers reviewed the surveillance footage and carried out intelligence led operations that led to the arrest of the suspect.
The baby has since been safely recovered, bringing relief to the mother and her family. Residents in the Mamprobi area have expressed gratitude to the police for their swift response.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances of the alleged crime and whether others were involved. Lalifa Salifu remains in custody as the case continues.
