The body of a baby girl discovered along a north Wales shoreline may have remained in the water for several weeks before being found, according to initial police assessments.
A member of the public made the discovery on the Menai Strait shoreline near Siliwen Road in Bangor, Gwynedd. According to police records, the report came in at 16:51 on Sunday, 27 September, with the location described as the coastal area just off Gorad Road.
North Wales Police confirmed on Thursday that a post-mortem examination had established the infant was a girl. The force is continuing an intensive search for the mother and has made a direct appeal for her to come forward.
What police are asking the mother
Superintendent Llinos Davies acknowledged that the mother may be reluctant to make contact but stressed that her welfare and safety are the police's priority.
We understand that the mother may be fearful of coming forward but we urge her to make contact with us,Davies said.
I want to reassure her that her welfare and safety was their utmost concern.
Davies also extended the appeal beyond the mother, asking for information from anyone concerned about a girl or woman who may have been pregnant or whose behaviour has changed noticeably in recent months.
Anyone with concerns about a girl or a woman you think may have been pregnant or whose behaviour has been unusual or out of character over the past few months including withdrawing from friends, family or social ties, please contact us,she said.
According to the police appeal, the baby's father, as well as friends, neighbours and colleagues who may have information, are also urged to come forward. All names provided will be handled with complete discretion and can be ruled out as the mother without delay, Davies confirmed.
Support available for the mother
Fiona Giraud, director of midwifery and women's services for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, made a direct appeal to the mother, emphasising that medical and emotional support is available.
Our immediate concern remains to be your health, safety and wellbeing.
You may feel you have nowhere to turn, or that you cannot speak to anyone about what has happened. Please do not feel that you have to face this alone,Giraud said. She acknowledged that the full circumstances surrounding the baby's death remain unknown but stressed that locating the mother and ensuring her safety and medical care are the immediate priorities.
We don't yet know all the circumstances surrounding your baby's death, but what is important right now is that we find you, make sure you are safe, and ensure you receive any medical attention and support you may need.
I am asking you personally, please take the first step and contact us. There are people to help you,Giraud said.
Investigation progress and next steps
Police said they were continuing to work with partner agencies at a fast pace to establish the circumstances, and that cordons would remain in place while enquiries continued. Further forensic and medical tests to determine more information about the baby are underway.
Davies expressed gratitude for community support.
I understand that this is a terribly sad incident for the community and I am grateful for the overwhelming support and assistance that we have received so far,she said.
How to provide information
Anyone with information is asked to contact police quoting Operation Melex. Information can also be submitted through the Major Incident Public Portal, which provides a secure channel for reporting details while maintaining confidentiality.
