POLICE have shared the test results on a suspected human placenta which was discovered near a park in Southampton.
The discovery last week by a schoolboy on Wednesday morning (21 June) in a path near Holly Brook Park sparked a major police search for the mother and baby.
In an appeal on Thursday, Chief Inspector Marcus Kennedy explained the search was based on advice from a medical expert, who believed the remains were human - but that tests were being done to confirm if this was the case.
READ MORE: Southampton teenager who found 'human placenta' speaks out
At the time, CI Kennedy said that 'he hoped to be proven wrong' about it being a human placenta, 'but we have to do the right thing', referring to the large-scale search operation.
On Sunday evening, the force confirmed that 'preliminary findings indicate the placenta is human'.
It continued its appeal to the 'person who may have given birth without support to please make contact with either police or our NHS colleagues'.
READ MORE: Human placenta found in Southampton: What we know so far
Reacting to the news, CI Marcus Kennedy said: “Now that we have preliminary findings that indicate this discovery to be a human placenta, we are increasingly concerned for the welfare of the mother and the child.
“I understand that this must be a very distressing time for you and that you may be frightened, but we want to make sure you are getting the right help and care, so please get in touch with us.
“We would also like to speak with anyone who has any concerns about someone who has recently been pregnant, that you think may have been pregnant or may have given birth recently without support.
“Anyone who contacts us can speak with us in complete confidence. Our absolute priority is to ensure the mother and child receive the assistance they require.
“Officers will remain in the area of Holly Brook Park for now. If you have any concerns, however insignificant you may believe them to be, please do not hesitate to approach an officer or to make contact with us.”
Police have asked anyone with information to call 101, quoting reference 1723 of 25/06/23 or report online via the police website quoting Operation Holdo.
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