In brief
A 39-year-old hospital cleaner named Rose Mnisi was apprehended in eastern Mpumalanga, South Africa, after police discovered her in possession of human placentas during a routine patrol. The woman, who works in a maternity ward, was reportedly attempting to sell the placentas. Police have seized the body tissues for forensic analysis, and she will return to court next month for her bail application amidst fears of a broader criminal operation involving human tissues.
A South African hospital cleaner has been arrested after being found in possession of a bag of human placentas in eastern Mpumalanga province, police report. Rose Mnisi was allegedly seeking potential buyers for the human body tissue when security personnel apprehended her following a tip-off. Upon police arrival, she confirmed her employment as a cleaner in the maternity ward and was caught with human tissues. The 39-year-old woman faces charges of illegal possession of human tissues and is scheduled to appear in court for a bail hearing next month.Mnisi's arrest occurred as she was attempting to hitchhike to the Nelspruit area while in possession of an undetermined number of human placentas. Authorities indicated that further charges could arise as investigations continue, but did not disclose the intended use of the placentas. However, there are beliefs that consuming such tissues may enhance breast milk production or help prevent post-natal depression, despite the lack of scientific support for these claims.This case echoes a troubling trend in South Africa, where similar incidents involving human body parts have been linked to traditional rituals and severe criminal acts. Recently, a Mozambican traditional healer was also charged with possessing human remains, further highlighting the concerning and illicit trade in human tissues across the region.
