Detectives are renewing their appeal for information one year after the discovery of a newborn baby, known as “Elsa,” in East London. Concerns remain for the welfare of the baby’s parents, especially the mother.
The Incident
On Thursday, 18 January 2024, a member of the public discovered a newborn baby wrapped in a towel inside a shopping bag near the junction of Greenway and High Street South, E6. The baby was unharmed and taken to hospital as a precaution before being placed into appropriate care.
Investigative Findings
Detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Team have since discovered that Elsa is biologically related to two other babies found abandoned in the same area in 2017 and 2019 under similar circumstances.
Detective Inspector Jamie Humm stated, “We have carried out extensive enquiries over the past year, including reviewing over 450 hours of CCTV footage and completing a full DNA structure of the mother. Specialists believe the parents have been living in the Plaistow or East Ham area over the past six years.
Appeal to the Public
Authorities have expressed significant concern for the parents’ welfare, particularly the mother, and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
“We believe someone in the community may know or have noticed this mother during her pregnancies. Professionals in health, education, or charitable sectors may have encountered her without realising her situation at the time. Even the smallest piece of information could be critical,” added DI Humm.
Reward Offered
The charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information provided anonymously that helps identify the parents. Crimestoppers can be reached at 0800 555 111 or via their website Crimestoppers-uk.org.
How to Help
- Contact Police: Anyone with information is urged to call 101 or post on social media to @MetCC quoting Operation Wolcott.
- Anonymous Tips: To remain completely anonymous, contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
The investigation remains active, with authorities emphasizing their commitment to the safety of all involved and their determination to locate and support the parents.
