The community of Protea Glen Extension 12 in Soweto is reeling in horror and disbelief following the gruesome discovery of six newborn babies’ charred remains at an illegal dumpsite on Monday morning, 14 July 2025. The shocking incident has left residents devastated and questioning how such a cruel act could occur in their midst.
According to witnesses, a passerby noticed what appeared to be burning plastic bags at a commonly used dumpsite. Upon closer inspection, the individual saw the partially burned bodies of infants wrapped in plastic and immediately alerted the police.
Law enforcement quickly arrived at the scene and confirmed the unthinkable: six newborn babies had been dumped and set alight. The area was cordoned off as investigations began.
Ward Councillor Phelelani Sindani, speaking to Daily Sun, expressed his sorrow and concern over the incident. “We are deeply saddened by this. It suggests either the existence of an illegal abortion clinic operating nearby or that someone gave birth and then dumped and burned the babies here,” he said.
Councillor Sindani also took the opportunity to criticise land developers and city authorities for failing to manage vacant land responsibly. “Developers often promise to build clinics, schools, or libraries, but after completing housing projects, they hand over unused land to the City of Johannesburg. The land then becomes neglected and turns into illegal dumpsites. If developers were held accountable, perhaps this tragedy could have been avoided.”
He added, “This is not only wrong — it is criminal, cruel, and utterly heartless.”
The heinous act has sparked widespread speculation in the community, particularly concerning the possibility of illegal abortion clinics operating in secrecy. Many residents are now fearful and demanding answers, hoping that those responsible will be brought to justice swiftly.
Gauteng police spokesperson, Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo, confirmed that a criminal case has been opened. “We have registered a case of concealment of birth, with six charges attached,” he said.
Masondo elaborated that a man searching for scrap materials at the dumpsite was the first to spot what he believed were the burnt remains of infants, prompting the community to call the police.
Police are now appealing to the public for assistance in solving the case. “We urge anyone with information related to this horrific incident to report it to their nearest police station or contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111,” said Masondo.
As the investigation unfolds, the residents of Protea Glen are left grappling with grief, fear, and outrage. Many have called for increased security, better land management, and thorough inspections of clinics and medical facilities in the area to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The devastating discovery of these six newborns has not only exposed potential gaps in health services and urban planning but also highlighted the urgent need for community support systems for vulnerable mothers in crisis.
About the Author
