Officers were dispatched to Werneth Park on Frederick Street in Oldham at around 2.40pm on Friday, March 28, after a member of public found what was believed to be “human remains”
A significant update has emerged after a human placenta was discovered in an Oldham park, initially prompting fears of ‘human remains’ and leading to a substantial police response. The unsettling find, which turned out to be a recently delivered human placenta, resulted in Greater Manchester Police cordoning off the area.
There was a major police operation at Werneth Park on Frederick Street in Oldham when a passer-by stumbled upon what was suspected to be “human remains” at around 2.40 pm on Friday, March 28. The park’s entrances were sealed off, with police tape visible across the gates.
Local residents observed a considerable number of emergency services personnel at the scene, with the park being completely inaccessible to the public during the investigation.
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Detective Inspector Andy Day from the Oldham district addressed the public’s concerns earlier, stating: “Incidents of this nature are extremely rare but of course will cause concern, and we share that concern.”
DI Day further clarified the nature of the inquiry, adding: “I want to make it clear at this stage our investigation is not a criminal one, but one into the welfare of a mum and baby. Medical experts have advised us it is likely the birth has occurred in the last 24 hours, and it’s possible mum or baby are, or could be, in need of medical attention.”
Police sought the public’s help following the discovery of the placenta, launching various enquiries, including database searches and agency coordination. An urgent appeal went out for information on the mother or child, or for the mum to contact police to ensure their wellbeing, reports the Mirror.
“We have several enquiries underway to try and identify who the placenta belongs to, including searching various UK databases and liaising with a number of partner agencies. I’m appealing to anyone who either knows the identity of mum or baby, or indeed mum herself, to come forward to us so we can ensure they are doing okay.
“I’d also appeal for anyone who has seen anything around the Werneth Park area over the last 24 hours they think might assist our enquiries to reach out. Officers will remain in the area for the coming hours and are there to listen to any concerns from the community.
“We appreciate the cooperation of those living locally, as we understand the impact of closing public spaces there to be enjoyed on a weekend.”
Later updates however have confirmed that, after appeals, the mother and baby involved were found and are confirmed to be ‘safe and well. ‘ Greater Manchester Police, alongside healthcare professionals, verified the identities of the individuals claiming relation to the placenta.
They added assurances that both individuals are healthy following their ordeal.
“They said that following the earlier appeal the mum and the baby had been found and they are “pleased to say that they are both safe and doing well.”
Following conclusive investigations, no concerning circumstances were detected, thereby concluding the police operation.
A spokesperson for the police said: “Alongside medical professionals, we have conducted several enquiries and are satisfied that the identity of those who have come forward match the placenta found. The scene will now close, and our investigation has concluded that there are no untoward circumstances.
“We want to thank members of the public who have assisted us and cooperated with the closure of the park today, and hope that this update provides closure to any earlier concerns.”