Baby Stolen in Mombasa After Mother Falls Victim to ‘Sponsor’ Scam

A harrowing case of alleged child trafficking in Mombasa has brought into sharp focus the inadequacies within Kenya’s maternal healthcare system and the dangers lurking within informal support networks. 

The ordeal began when Zainab Mwamini Juma, recently released from prison and heavily pregnant, sought spiritual guidance at a pastor’s residence in Likoni. After giving birth to a healthy baby boy at the same location, she was transferred to Mrima Maternity Hospital. It was here, struggling to meet the Sh6,600 hospital bill, that Ms Juma's path crossed with Harriet Imali, a woman described as a "sponsor" who offered financial assistance. 

This seemingly benevolent act, however, appears to have been a carefully orchestrated scheme to seize her child. Ms Imali not only promised to settle the bill but also offered to secure housing and provide essential baby supplies. For Ms Juma, lacking both financial stability and a robust support system, the offer appeared to be a lifeline. Upon discharge, Ms Imali escorted her to a newly furnished room, a gesture that masked a sinister intent.

The deception unfolded when Ms Juma informed Ms Imali of her intention to retrieve personal belongings. Imali offered to send assistance, resulting in the arrival of two motorcycle taxis and a woman who promptly absconded with the infant. Ms Juma's desperate search proved futile, leading her to report the incident to the police. Inspector Daniel Njoroge spearheaded the subsequent investigation, resulting in Ms Imali's arrest. 

During questioning, she allegedly implicated Linda Karea Kirimana, claiming that Ms Karea had offered her Sh30,000 in exchange for the child due to her own inability to conceive. Police investigations reveal that Ms Karea allegedly financed the hospital bill, rented the accommodation, and purchased household items, all in furtherance of her alleged child abduction plan. The police are currently analysing three mobile phones retrieved from the suspects for further evidence. 

The prosecution, represented by State Counsel Barbara Sombo, has voiced concerns regarding the safety of Ms Juma and other witnesses, arguing that the suspects pose a flight risk and could potentially obstruct the ongoing investigation if released on bail. Senior Resident Magistrate David Odhiambo granted the police a 15-day extension for custodial investigation. Ms Imali, according to police records, was a volunteer affiliated with Mrima Maternity Hospital's community health programme.