Baby 'stolen from womb' after mum murdered as police hunt for killer-kidnappers

A 21-year-old pregnant woman was found dead near a river in Cali, Colombia, with her unborn child removed from her womb, according to police. The victim, María Camila Potosí, was eight months pregnant when she disappeared on July 16 after leaving her home for a routine prenatal visit. Her body was discovered on the banks of the River Meléndez, approximately four miles from her residence. Authorities confirmed that she had been stabbed multiple times and that her fetus had been surgically extracted and was missing. Potosí was last seen riding on the back of a motorcycle with an unidentified woman. The incident occurred in Polvorines, a neighborhood within Cali. Surveillance footage captured her entering a vehicle driven by the woman, who had previously met Potosí through a local support group for expectant mothers. The woman has since altered her account to investigators and remains a key figure in the ongoing inquiry. According to police deputy head of criminal investigations, Maj Alirio Acuña, Potosí’s body was found at kilometre 3 on the La Buitrera road, matching the description of the missing woman. Preliminary examinations indicated that the victim had undergone a violent attack prior to her death. The discovery has prompted calls for a comprehensive investigation into her killing and the whereabouts of her unborn child. Potosí’s mother, Ana Rubi Gómez, expressed deep concern over the fate of her granddaughter, whom she had hoped would still be alive. In an emotional statement to local radio station La FM, Gómez said she was initially devastated upon learning that the baby was no longer in her womb but clung to the possibility that the child could still be alive. She appealed to the public for assistance in locating the infant, whose name was to be Alahia. Prior to her disappearance, Potosí had celebrated a gender reveal party for her unborn daughter, sharing photos online showing her happiness with her husband. She had also visited her sister-in-law’s home in Meléndez to care for a sick relative shortly before her scheduled prenatal appointment. Her absence triggered an alert from her husband, who contacted authorities when she failed to return home. Authorities have launched a wide-ranging investigation into the circumstances surrounding Potosí’s death, with reports suggesting that more than four individuals may have been involved in her abduction and murder. A substantial reward has been offered for information leading to the identification of the perpetrators and the location of the missing infant. The Cali Ombudsman's Office has called for a swift and thorough probe, emphasizing the need to trace the child immediately should she still be alive. Local officials have described the case as one of extreme gravity, demanding that the Public Prosecutor's Office conduct a rigorous investigation. Senator-elect Jennifer Pedraza condemned the act, stating that the kidnapping, torture, and murder of a young pregnant woman must not go unpunished. Former presidential candidate Sondra Macollins echoed these sentiments, expressing frustration over the lack of immediate action and calling for accountability from law enforcement. The incident has sparked widespread outrage among residents of Cali, with many demanding justice for Potosí and the safety of other vulnerable members of society. As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on identifying those responsible for the crime and ensuring the well-being of the missing child. The case highlights the broader issue of violence against women and the need for stronger protections for pregnant individuals in the region.