A woman who allegedly stole a newborn baby at Grootte Schuur Hospital 18 years ago, made her first appearance in the Cape Town District Court on Friday.

Levina Sabena Solomon, 50, of Lavender Hill of the Cape Flats, appeared before magistrate Zamekhai Mbalo. Solomon was arrested on February 26

She is charged with kidnapping a minor on April 30, 1997 at the hospital.

At the request of prosecutor Bonny Currie-Gamwo, Solomon was remanded to March 6 to enable the State to gather information about her background.

This information will enable the State to decide whether to oppose any bail application brought by Solomon or not.

Solomon is also to attend an identity parade, and for this reason, the court banned the publication of any pictures of her, or any details about the girl, now aged 18.

Defence attorney Rheaz Khan said there was no need for his client’s further detention but the magistrate said the court had a discretion, and he ruled in favour of the State.

Solomon is to appear again on March 6. SAPA