SWAT: Saidu Sharif Police have arrested a woman accused of abducting a newborn baby girl from the gynecology ward of Central Hospital Saidu Sharif and recovered the child safely within hours.
According to police, the incident occurred while the newborn was with her mother, the wife of Smaiullah, a resident of Kanala Chuprial. The suspect allegedly approached the family and took the baby on the pretext of getting her vaccinated but failed to return.
The baby’s mother subsequently reported the disappearance to hospital authorities and police.
Baby Recovered in Upper Dir
Swat District Police Officer Muhammad Umar Khan took immediate notice of the incident and directed officers to trace the child and arrest the suspect.
A police team led by Saidu Sharif SHO Zia-ur-Rehman reviewed CCTV footage and used technical assistance to track the suspect.
DSP Saidu Sharif Circle Shehanshah Khan said the suspect was eventually traced to Koza Bandai in Upper Dir, where police arrested her during a raid and recovered the newborn safely.
The suspect was identified as Ruqayya, wife of Gul Nawab, originally from Upper Dir and currently residing in Koza Bandai. She was shifted to the Women Police Station Rahimabad for further legal proceedings.
Concerns Over Hospital Security
The incident has renewed concerns among local residents about security arrangements in hospital labour and gynecology wards.
Residents have urged hospital administrations to strengthen security measures, closely monitor entry and exit points, properly operate CCTV systems and ensure adequate supervision of patients and attendants.
They also called for stricter monitoring to prevent unauthorized individuals from approaching mothers and newborns inside sensitive hospital wards.
DSP Shehanshah Khan said the investigation was continuing to determine the motive and establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged abduction.