Police launch appeal after foetus left in box outside London hospital

Police have launched an appeal after a foetus was left in a box outside a north London hospital.

The foetus is thought to have been aged about 16 weeks old, according to the Metropolitan police, who are treating the matter as unexplained. The mother has been urged to come forward due to concerns for her welfare.

Police also want to speak to a man in his 30s, wearing dark clothing, who may have left the box at Barnet hospital on Monday.

Officers were called on Monday shortly after 9am after the foetus was discovered. DI Matt Coad said: “At this moment, our priority is to ensure that the mother is OK and that she receives the appropriate medical attention.

“This is likely to be a traumatic time for her and I would ask that she makes contact either with us, her local GP or a hospital.

“We believe that the box was left by a man, aged in 30s, who was wearing dark clothing. I would also encourage him to come forward so that we can help.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police via 101 quoting reference CAD 1599/30Jan.