Chinese Baby in Pipe Sent to Grandparents; Football Star Wants to Adopt Him
The Chinese infant discovered in a sewage pipe was released from the hospital and sent home to live with his grandparents. His mother has since admitted that she never planned the pregnancy and his peril after birth was an accident.
The baby boy's mother told police that she was afraid to come forward and reveal the pregnancy because of the stigma associated with single mothers in China. Instead, she dressed in loose clothing and wrapped her stomach. After giving birth, she cleaned the area and watched helplessly as rescuers saved her son.
Authorities conducted a search of the apartment complex where she lived, and after noticing some signs, they asked her to undergo a medical evaluation. She then revealed that she was, in fact, the baby's mother. Police said that they will not press charges against the 22-year-old.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
In a unique twist, former Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu has told the press that he wants to adopt the infant known as "Baby 59."
"I intend to adopt this baby," Mutu told Romanian TV. "I couldn't figure out how to carry on living, how to eat my breakfast when I saw this story on TV. He's a special child. When I saw the baby I said, 'I must adopt him. He has been sent to me by God.'"
"Just look at this poor little fellow. He made such a strong impression on me. I told my wife we have to help him, we have to do everything we can. I never thought I would adopt a baby, I had no plan concerning that, but I just know: I have to help this one," Mutu said.
Some feel that the police are making a huge mistake in not prosecuting the young mother for her deeds.
"The local police may have considered the woman was still young and did not have any malice, and have come to the decision from the human perspective, but it sends a terrible signal to the public," Duan Wanjin, a criminal lawyer told the Associated Press.
Police have also tracked down a man they believe is the baby's father, and he has agreed to help with financial assistance if so needed. Neither his name nor the mother's name has been released, with authorities citing public policy in China.
