Heightened concerns over infant safety in health facilities have prompted calls for stricter security measures nationwide following an alleged baby theft at Mamprobi Polyclinic in Accra.

First Deputy Majority Whip Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe has urged both public and private hospitals to immediately strengthen safety protocols, including tighter access control systems, to prevent similar incidents.

According to her, enhanced security standards are necessary to protect mothers and newborns, particularly in maternity and postnatal wards where infants are most vulnerable.

She stressed that hospitals must adopt stricter monitoring of visitors and movements within their premises to address what she described as worrying cases of baby theft in health facilities.

She recognised the timeous effort of the police, and the support of the Gender Ministry to resolve the "distressing" incident.

Her position was backed by Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei, who also appealed to hospital administrators to prioritise urgent safety measures to safeguard mothers and their babies.

Both lawmakers called for immediate action rather than reactive measures after incidents occur.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has stepped up security at the Mamprobi facility, deploying 24-hour surveillance around the clock as investigations continue into the alleged theft.

Police confirmed that a suspect, identified as Latifa Salifu, has been apprehended in connection with the case and will be arraigned for further legal proceedings.

Read: Mamprobi Polyclinic: Police service to arraign woman in court over alleged newborn theft