An unidentified woman has allegedly abandoned a week-old baby girl at Thyolo District Hospital.

The hospital’s nursing officer Chikondi Nyson confirmed the incident, saying the baby was dumped in a pit latrine used by patients’ guardians at the facility.

“A man who went to the guardian shelter toilet to relieve himself, heard the baby crying inside the toilet and quickly alerted some women and hospital staff, who managed to rescue the child,” said Nyson.

He said the baby was found alive and unharmed, and is currently receiving care at the hospital.

“The baby is in good condition and we are taking care of her,” Nyson added. “We have already reported the matter to the police and the district social welfare office to help trace the mother and ensure the child’s safety.”

Thyolo Police spokesperson Rabecca Kashoti said she would comment on the matter later as investigations were still underway.