A hospital worker in northern Brazil, identified as Auricelia de Sousa Rocha, was apprehended for allegedly trying to abduct a newborn baby under false pretenses of being pregnant. Rocha, a nursing technician on medical leave, managed to gain entry to the maternity ward by wearing scrubs. The incident unfolded at the Evangelina Rosa Maternity Hospital in Teresina, where CCTV footage captured Rocha walking with the infant.
The baby’s aunt, Daniela Beatriz, recounted that Rocha approached the new mother after delivery, claiming the baby needed a routine heel prick test. Subsequently, Rocha led Beatriz to another floor while the mother remained in her room. Beatriz stated that Rocha then attempted to leave the hospital with the baby concealed in a bag.
Surveillance footage depicted a person in scrubs carrying a black bag and the infant wrapped in a red blanket. The footage further showed a woman in regular clothing holding a bag before being intercepted by another individual who prevented her from exiting the premises.
According to reports, Rocha’s residence was found to be equipped with baby items despite her alleged fabrication of pregnancy to her family. Rocha’s legal counsel cited schizophrenic symptoms affecting her comprehension during the investigation, though authorities maintained that mental health issues would not absolve her of responsibility.
The incident has sparked concerns about hospital security and patient safety. The police are continuing their investigation into the attempted abduction.