Police have issued a major update after a human placenta was discovered in a park in Greater Manchester.
The grim sighting sparked a wide-spread search to locate a mother and baby after the discovery in Oldham on Friday. The search came after a passer-by alerted the police after they thought they spotted human “remains” at Werneth Park at around 2.40pm.
But police soon confirmed that it was a placenta, triggering the search to check on the welfare of the parent and child.
Now, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that the mother and baby have been located and said they are both doing well.
The force earlier said: “Incidents of this nature are extremely rare but of course will cause concern, and we share that concern. The spokesperson added: “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.
“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.”
In the update, the force thanked the community for their assistance in the case. The spokesperson said they hope the update “provides closure to any earlier concerns”.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “Following our earlier appeal in relation to a placenta which was found in Werneth Park, Oldham, earlier today (Friday 28 March 2025), we have now located mum and baby.
“We are pleased to say that they are both safe and doing well. 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.
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