Estonian mother wanted for infant's death found in Morocco, faces extradition

Estonian authorities  confirmed on Monday that a mother wanted under a “red notice” in connection with the death of an infant in Lääne County, Estonia was located in Morocco.

The Police and Border Guard Board (PPA) had been searching for her since February 5th, when the body of the deceased infant was discovered by a family’s pet dog in the village of Suure-Lähtru.

The woman, a 31-year-old Estonian citizen, was arrested by Moroccan authorities in the Dakhla region after cooperation with Interpol. She is accused of voluntary homicide and is currently in custody awaiting extradition to Estonia.

Kaido Kõplas, head of the PPA’s Western Prefecture, confirmed the woman’s location, stating that she is alive and well in Moroccan custody. 

DNA samples confirmed her identity, and international collaboration led to her apprehension.

However, extradition back to Estonia may be a prolonged process due to Morocco’s non-membership in the European Union. This hinges on a decision from Moroccan authorities.

The circumstances surrounding the woman’s pregnancy and childbirth, which apparently occurred without medical assistance, remain unclear. 

Currently, it remains uncertain whether the woman in custody is a victim of a crime or mistreatment, if she traveled to Morocco of her own accord, and whether her purpose for going there was to deliberately avoid authorities or for another motive.

Further investigation, including a terrain search where the infant’s body was found, is underway. Senior prosecutor Maarja Germann emphasized that understanding the events leading to the infant’s death depends on the woman’s return to Estonia.

The ongoing criminal proceedings, overseen by the Prosecutor’s Office, Western District, currently classify the case under infanticide. However, this classification may evolve as more details emerge.

Germann stressed that while locating the woman is a significant development, the investigation is far from over. Routine activities will continue as authorities strive to uncover the full truth behind the tragic incident.