Newborn Saved From Kidnapping Attempt at Siguiri Prefectural Hospital
Siguiri, Guinea – August 5, 2025 – A dramatic late-night incident at the maternity ward of the Siguiri Prefectural Hospital saw a newborn baby narrowly escape an attempted kidnapping. The unidentified assailant was apprehended by a vigilant family member before successfully fleeing the scene.
The incident occurred between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM on Monday, August 4th, according to hospital staff and eyewitness accounts.The baby, a girl born via Cesarean section earlier that day to mother Aminata Diallo, was the target of the attempted abduction.
Delphine Diabatรฉ, sister of the mother, recounted the harrowing experience: “I was outside heating water for my sister after her surgery. When I returned, I saw a man climbing through the window towards the babyS bassinet. I instantly confronted him, and we struggled over the child. I screamed for help, shouting ‘Thief!’ and he dropped the baby before escaping over the hospital wall.”
Fortunately, the infant sustained no injuries during the ordeal. She was immediately checked by attending nurses and reunited with her mother.
Dr. Tassy Beretรฉ, Head of Maternity Services at Siguiri Prefectural Hospital, confirmed the incident and emphasized the need for increased security measures. “Our staff was occupied with other critical patient care when this occurred.The quick thinking of Ms. Diabatรฉ and the prompt response of our team prevented a tragedy. We are urging all visitors to adhere strictly to visiting hours – currently 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM – to help us better monitor access to the maternity ward. This incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced security protocols within our healthcare facilities.”
The Siguiri Police Department has launched a full examination, led by Inspector Mamadou Kaba, to identify and apprehend the suspect. Authorities are reviewing hospital security footage and interviewing staff and potential witnesses. The hospital, which serves a population of approximately 85,000 in the Siguiri region, has reported a recent increase in petty theft, but this is the first reported attempt at kidnapping within the facility.
Ongoing Security Concerns in Guinean healthcare Facilities
this incident highlights a broader issue of security vulnerabilities within healthcare facilities across Guinea. Underfunding and limited resources frequently enough hinder the implementation of robust security measures, leaving hospitals susceptible to theft and, in this case, attempted kidnapping. The Ministry of Health has announced plans to conduct a nationwide security assessment of all public hospitals, with a focus on improving perimeter security, installing surveillance systems, and increasing security personnel. The Siguiri Prefectural Hospital is currently operating with only two security guards for the entire complex, a staffing level deemed insufficient by local health officials.
Ibrahima camara, Siguiri
