Gender Minister Reveals Suspect in Mamprobi Polyclinic Baby Theft Acted Out of Desperation, Announces Support for All Involved
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has disclosed that the woman arrested for allegedly stealing a newborn from Mamprobi Polyclinic may have been driven by a deep personal desperation for a child.
In an interview with JoyNews, Dr. Lartey described 33-year-old suspect Latifa Salifu—a cloth seller—as “a woman in desperate need of a child.” She explained that the suspect reportedly saw a “very convenient environment” at the postnatal ward and took advantage of the situation.
“Without meaning to give too much information out, I just want to say that she is a woman in desperate need of a child. She saw a very convenient environment and took advantage of it,” the minister stated.
While emphasizing that the act itself is not praiseworthy and remains a serious criminal offense, Dr. Lartey highlighted the need for compassion and support, noting the trauma the suspect herself has likely endured. She stressed that the government, under the directive of President John Dramani Mahama, is committed to providing care not only to the affected family but also to the suspect.
The ministry is ensuring medical care and psychosocial support for the mother, Precious Ankomah, her four-day-old baby boy (who developed a fever after the ordeal), and the suspect. This builds on earlier announcements that the government would fully cover the family’s medical bills and provide assorted baby essentials.
The incident unfolded on February 17, 2026, when the baby—born via cesarean section on February 14—was taken from the postnatal ward by a woman disguised in a peach-colored nurse’s uniform, who claimed to be administering medication. Viral CCTV footage of the suspect fleeing the facility prompted widespread public attention and aided the swift police response.
The Dansoman Divisional Police Command arrested Salifu in the early hours of February 18 at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital premises, where the baby was safely recovered and reunited with his mother. Investigations continue to determine if any accomplices were involved, with the suspect expected to face arraignment soon.
During her visit to the facility, Dr. Lartey personally facilitated the emotional reunion, presented support items to the family, and urged Mamprobi residents to continue using the polyclinic’s services, praising its strong maternal health record despite this isolated incident. She also called for improved security measures in healthcare facilities, such as mandatory name tags on uniforms.
The case has sparked national discussions on vulnerability, mental health, infertility-related pressures, and the balance between justice and humanitarian support for those in distress. Authorities and the ministry continue to collaborate to address both the immediate needs and broader preventive measures.
