21/09/2026
DPP FACILITATES SUCCESSFUL REPATRIATION OF MINOR FROM RUSSIA
GABORONE, 21 SEPTEMBER 2026 — The Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) confirms the successful repatriation to Botswana of a minor who had been abandoned at a hospital in Moscow, Russian Federation, shortly after birth.
The child, who was born in Moscow in November 2025 to a Motswana who was studying in Russia at the time, came under the protection of the Russian authorities following the abandonment.
Through collaboration between the DPP, Botswana Police Service and the Department of Social Development, in cooperation with the relevant authorities in the Russian Federation, arrangements were made for the child’s safe return to Botswana. A Botswana team travelled to Russia to facilitate the repatriation, and the child arrived safely in Botswana on the evening of 20 September 2026. The child is in good health.
The DPP commends the cooperation among the relevant authorities in Botswana and the Russian Federation in ensuring the child’s safe return and protection.
In the interest of safeguarding the child’s privacy, the identities of the persons involved will not be disclosed.
ENDS