An umbilical cord recently found on the banks of a Sydney river belonged to a baby, police have revealed.
Authorities are still searching for the baby and his mother, after a dog walker found an umbilical cord and placenta in the Cooks River at Earlwood, in Sydney’s west, about 4.30pm on Monday.
Forensic tests have confirmed that the baby is a boy.
Police are yet to confirm whether the baby was born on the river bank or elsewhere.
Umbilical cord found on the banks of the Cooks River (pictured) belonged to a baby
Authorities have urged the mother to go to the nearest hospital for urgent care for herself and her son, a sentiment strongly echoed by NSW Health Minister Ryan Park.
“My heart absolutely goes out to this mother and her little baby,” he said Tuesday.
‘I want to tell you this very clearly if she is listening, or if her friends and family are no doubt struggling or listening: You are not in trouble.
‘You don’t have to talk to the police. All I ask is that you go to one of our hospitals so we can treat you and your baby as quickly as possible.’
Police divers are seen scouring the mangroves at the water’s edge.
Shortly after the discovery, Detective Chief Superintendent Christine McDonald said she hoped one of the nearby homes or businesses in Earlwood had CCTV footage of the woman or a pregnant woman in distress.
She acknowledged that childbirth can be a “traumatic” and “distressing” time for many people.
“I am deeply concerned for the safety and mental health of the mother,” Superintendent McDonald said.
“I need to know that he is safe and that he is getting the support he needs right now.”
Anyone with information or CCTV viewing is asked to contact Burwood Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.