Baby ‘kidnap’ case delayed by DNA tests

DURBAN: A man accused of “kidnapping” a one-month-old baby girl from the Durban city centre on Friday is adamant he is her real father and says he took her because her life was in danger.

The man, along with the infant’s mother – who has also been charged in connection with the incident – made a brief appearance before the Durban Magistrates’ Court yesterday morning.

They were met by a swarm of journalists as they emerged from the grills – she with her face wrapped in a scarf, and he with his gaze downcast.

Appearing embarrassed, the woman whispered to magistrate Mahomed Motala that she had met with a lawyer but that she was not in court and she did not know her surname.

No indication as to whether or not she would apply for bail was given.

The man was represented by Andile Dakela, who said his client would apply for bail.

Their case was adjourned for two days for DNA testing to be done.

Currently the pair is charged with kidnapping and defeating or obstructing the course of justice, but more charges are expected to be added before the next court date.

Speaking to the press afterwards, Dakela said the facts of the matter were “very simple”.

“You have my client who had been involved in a relationship, and as a result thereof a child was born. According to my firm instructions, there was a threat to the life of the child, which then prompted my client to react swiftly to save the child.”

DNA samples are expected to be taken from the infant, the accused – who claims to be her father – as well as her mother’s husband – who was initially believed to be her father.

“The reason why we have to postpone the matter for DNA is mainly to actually deal with the issue of kidnapping,” Dakela said.