BULAWAYO — A desperate manhunt is underway after a four-month-old baby girl was kidnapped from her home in New Parklands. The abduction, which occurred on December 29, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the community, exposing a predatory new tactic where criminals use social media groups to exploit vulnerable parents.
The Deception: How the Scam Unfolded
The nightmare began on December 27, 2025, when the victim’s 26-year-old mother responded to an offer for free children’s clothing in a popular WhatsApp channel known as “Idale Labomama.”
The suspect, identifying herself as “MaNdlovu” from Cowdray Park, built a rapport with the mother over two days. On the morning of December 29, the suspect confirmed she would deliver the clothes that afternoon, providing specific instructions to meet at the intersection of Harare Road and Cecil Avenue.
A Calculated Trap
While the mother walked to the designated meeting point with one twin, the suspect allegedly used the distraction to enter the New Parklands residence.
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The Vulnerability: The mother’s four-year-old daughter was playing outside, while the second twin remained asleep in the bedroom.
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The Discovery: After waiting 15 minutes at the intersection for a “MaNdlovu” who never arrived, the mother returned home to find her infant daughter missing.
Current Status: Police Investigation
Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, the Bulawayo police spokesperson, confirmed that authorities are treating this as a high-priority abduction. Police are currently tracking the digital footprint of the WhatsApp account used and are appealing to the residents of Cowdray Park and surrounding areas for any information regarding the suspect.
“This case underscores a growing trend of social media-facilitated crimes. We urge the public to never leave their homes unsecured or their children unattended, even for a few minutes, when meeting strangers from the internet.” — Inspector Nomalanga Msebele
| Date/Time | Event Details |
| Dec 27 | Mother responds to the WhatsApp message; MaNdlovu offers home delivery and collects the victim’s address. |
| Dec 29, 06:00 | Suspect confirms delivery will happen today. |
| Dec 29, 13:00 | Suspect changes plan, instructing the mother to wait at the corner of Harare Road and Cecil Avenue. |
| Dec 29, 13:05 | Mother leaves for the meeting point with one twin, leaving the victim asleep in the bedroom. |
| Dec 29, 13:20 | After a 15-minute wait with no sign of the suspect, the mother returns to find the bedroom empty. |
Key Players to Watch
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The Victim: A vulnerable four-month-old baby girl (twin).
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The Suspect: Known as MaNdlovu, claiming to be from Cowdray Park.
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The Platform: The WhatsApp group “Idale Labomama,” which is now being scrutinized as a potential hunting ground for scammers.
Community Safety Warning
Local authorities and digital safety experts emphasize that “free gift” scams often target those facing economic hardships. To protect your family:
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Verify Identity: Never share your home address with members of unverified WhatsApp groups.
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Public Meetings: If meeting someone from the internet, always bring a companion and choose a busy, public location.
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Secure the Home: Never leave children alone or doors unlocked, regardless of how brief the errand may seem.
