600 women DNA tested in baby death probe

Up to 600 women and girls are to be DNA tested as part of a bid by detectives to trace the mother of a newborn baby found murdered.

Screening is due to start next Monday, police announced today.

The baby was found in a black bin bag on a country lane at Carryduff on the southern outskirts of Belfast.

The baby had suffered head injuries and stab wounds and may have been dead for several weeks.

Police said detectives hoped to screen around 600 females between the ages of 13 and 45 who are not currently pregnant.

Tests will be voluntary and police have pledged to destroy all the DNA records.

The baby’s body was discovered behind a community centre by children on March 26. A public meeting is to be held there on Thursday night.

Detectives said they believed women in the Carryduff area would be prepared to assist the inquiry

but they also urged the baby’s mother to come forward.

Chief Inspector Roy McComb said: ‘‘She must be feeling very confused and frightened, but we can help her if she would please get in touch.’’