A toddler has been found wandering the streets alone in the early hours of the morning, wearing nothing but a nappy and clutching a small ball.
The young boy, believed to be around two or three years old, was discovered by a member of the public shortly before 7am on Thursday in Newport, South Wales.
The concerned passer-by contacted police, who quickly arrived at the scene on Temple Street in the Pill Mill area. Gwent Police confirmed that the child was taken into their care while enquiries were made to trace his parents.
In a statement, the force said: “We received a report of a young boy being found by a member of the public in Newport at around 6.55am on Thursday 20 March. The child is currently safe with our officers while they speak with his parents to establish the circumstances.”
Initial social media reports suggested the boy was non-verbal and wearing only a nappy while holding a small ball. The child appeared unharmed.
After conducting enquiries, police confirmed that no criminal offences had been identified and the toddler has since been safely returned to his parents.
A spokesperson for Gwent Police later added: “Following our investigation, we can confirm that no offences have been established. The child has been returned to the care of his family.”
The incident has sparked concern among local residents, many expressing shock that a child so young was able to wander off unnoticed.
One local wrote on social media: “It’s heartbreaking to think of that little one out on his own. So glad he’s safe now.”
A similar incident occurred last year in Midlothian, Scotland, when a toddler was found walking alone along Burnbrae Road in Bonnyrigg. She was spotted by a passing couple on August 28 and safely reunited with her parents after police intervened.
The latest case has reignited discussions around child safety and the importance of ensuring secure environments for toddlers at home.
