MPD releases sketch of baby snatching suspect

MANILA, Philippines - Police released yesterday an artist’s sketch of the suspect in the abduction of a newborn girl, as they advised hospital patients to be wary of strangers offering help.

Police said the suspect, identified as Melogine Jarasa, 40, looks for hospital patients with no companions. She would assist the patient in her needs to gain her trust. She was described as five-foot tall fair-skinned, round-faced woman with a medium build, her hair tied in a bun.

Records show that Jarasa, who identified herself as Melon Aradanas, befriended Marjorie Angoy, who had just given birth at the Ospital ng Sampaloc. The suspect attended to Angoy’s needs since she was alone and had no relatives to take care of her at the hospital. The suspect also assisted Angoy when she was discharged at the hospital Wednesday.

Footage taken by the hospital’s closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera showed the suspect carrying Angoy’s baby when they left the hospital.

Angoy told police the suspect accompanied her to a bus terminal in Sampaloc, then advised her to change her sanitary napkin in the restroom because she might stain the bus seat on her way to the province. Angoy said she followed the advice and left her baby with the suspect. When she returned the suspect was already gone, together with her newborn.

Police said the suspect could be a member of a syndicate behind the abduction and sale of babies in Metro Manila and the provinces.