A Cape Town family is reeling in shock and devastation after their one-week-old baby was kidnapped from a busy shopping mall under deeply disturbing circumstances. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, June 28, has triggered widespread concern and an urgent appeal for information from the public.
According to the Western Cape Missing Persons Unit (WCMPU), the infant, identified as Mogamat Imaad Shamar, was just nine days old at the time of his disappearance. He was last seen wearing a white vest and a white crawler decorated with car patterns, and was wrapped snugly in a blue blanket.
Details surrounding the abduction reveal a calculated and manipulative scheme. The baby’s mother, whose identity has not been disclosed, had reportedly met a woman who befriended her shortly after giving birth. This woman allegedly posed as a kind and supportive stranger who expressed a keen interest in helping the young mother.
As trust began to build, the woman invited the new mom out for lunch under the pretense of treating her and helping her get some fresh air. Believing she had made a new friend, the mother accepted the offer and accompanied the woman to a shopping mall in Cape Town.
Once there, the situation took a tragic turn. At some point during the outing, the woman managed to separate the mother from her baby. It is believed that she offered to hold the infant while the mother handled another task — a classic distraction tactic. In mere moments, the suspect disappeared with baby Imaad, leaving the frantic mother to search in vain.
Authorities were alerted immediately, and the Western Cape Missing Persons Unit launched an investigation. CCTV footage from the mall is being reviewed, and officials have asked anyone who may have seen a woman carrying a baby matching Imaad’s description to come forward with information.
The community has responded with outrage and sorrow, sharing the baby’s photo and description across social media in the hopes of locating him swiftly. “This is every parent’s worst nightmare,” one concerned community member said. “We are praying for baby Imaad’s safe return.”
Police are treating the case as a high-priority child abduction and have not ruled out the possibility that the suspect may have been part of a larger, organized operation targeting vulnerable new mothers.
As the search continues, Imaad’s family remains heartbroken but hopeful. They are urging anyone with information — no matter how small — to report it to the police or the WCMPU. A dedicated hotline has been set up to receive tips.
This tragic case serves as a grim reminder for parents and caregivers to remain vigilant and cautious, especially when approached by strangers offering unsolicited help or companionship.
At the time of his abduction, baby Mogamat Imaad Shamar was dressed in a white vest, white crawler with cars, and wrapped in a blue blanket. Anyone with leads is encouraged to contact local authorities immediately.
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