MOSSEL BAY NEWS -  Police were called to the Langeberg Mall yesterday, Friday 21 November, after a crying baby was found alone in a vehicle in the parking area.

A woman, who requested to remain anonymous, told the Mossel Bay Advertiser that she heard crying sounds in the mall’s parking area and went to investigate.

She told the Advertiser she was shocked to find an infant alone inside a vehicle. She immediately called for help, and mall security personnel quickly responded.

The woman alleges that one of the vehicle’s windows had to be broken to gain access to the infant.

Police spokesperson Sgt Chris Spies confirmed that Da Gamaskop police were alerted.

“Upon arrival, the members were taken to an office on site where the mother was found breastfeeding the child,” he said.

It is unclear at this stage how old the baby is, whether any injuries were sustained, or whether a case has been opened against the parent or parents. 

The Automobile Association (AA) has previously warned motorists not to leave children or pets in vehicles, even for short periods of time.

"Temperatures in cars can climb very rapidly, and even if a window is cracked slightly open, the inside temperature will exceed outside temperatures by several degrees. Children and pets who are left in cars are vulnerable and can become dehydrated quickly," said the organisation.

The organisation added that motorists should consider leaving children or pets at home, or dropping them off somewhere else before running other errands.

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