Security Analyst Dr. Ishmael Norman has described public reactions to the alleged baby theft at Mamprobi Polyclinic as exaggerated, asserting that Ghana remains largely safe despite the isolated incident.
The comments follow the reported abduction of a newborn at the clinic in Accra. The baby has since been safely recovered.
According to reports, the suspect—disguised as a nurse—was captured on CCTV carrying the infant away in what appeared to be a sack. The incident occurred on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, shortly after the mother delivered via cesarean section, sparking panic among staff and patients.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, Dr. Norman said, “In terms of care for children, less than 20% of children under 12 have someone accompanying them to school or being bused. My sympathy goes to the couple whose child was stolen, but I think we are overblowing this. Ghana is safe for all, and this is not a frequent occurrence. The moment it involved a baby, the reaction was exaggerated.”
He also cautioned against blaming the health facility alone, citing systemic challenges in surveillance coverage across the country.
“You will notice that CCTV penetration in Ghana is just about 12%, so you cannot blame the hospital alone. Many critical businesses do not have CCTVs,” he noted.
Dr. Norman commended the rapid response of authorities, including the Health Minister, the Regional Minister, and other officials who visited to console the affected couple.
“I want to assure mothers and fathers that your children are safe in this country,” he concluded.
