28/03/2002

Police consider DNA testing to find mother of Carryduff infant

A police spokesperson has said a mass screening of women is an option they may have to explore if they want to find the mother of the baby girl found dead on the outskirts of south Belfast earlier this week.

The screening would allow experts to try to match the baby's genetic make-up or DNA.

A police spokesperson said that as of Thursday March 28, no one had come forward with any information as to the identity of the child or the mother.

A post mortem examination revealed the newborn baby had numerous head and body injuries before she died.

The baby girl’s body was discovered by two schoolchildren, aged 10 and 11, behind the Loughmoss Leisure Centre in Carryduff on Tuesday March 26. It is thought the body may have been there for several weeks.

The post mortem examination carried out on Wednesday revealed the baby had sustained several injuries and had died shortly after birth.

The police have said counselling had been offered to the children who found the baby’s body.

Police have made an urgent appeal for the mother to come forward amid concerns for her wellbeing.

(AMcE)

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