An incident where a 20-year-old mother abandoned her newborn twins in a rubbish bin has raised public concerns and the Samoa Victim Support Group has called out to women in similar situations saying help is always available.

Speaking to Samoa Observer, SVSG president Siliniu Lina Chang said it was very sad to hear about the two babies being abandoned and it was a wake-up call for all mothers, especially the desperate and young ones that there is always hope and support to turn to in times like such.

"SVSG caters for children whose families cannot raise or care for and especially young mothers who have difficulties with pregnancies at home, we are very happy to welcome you with open arms," Siliniu said.

"I know that this is the problem faced by young girls who get pregnant at a very young age but please there is always our free helpline to contact anytime you need help."

Siliniu also reminded Samoa of its obligation to protect the rights of children, as articulated in the Samoa Constitution which guarantees fundamental rights to life for all Samoan people.

She said it's a country-wide effort to try and tackle this problem. She said the church, villages and community leaders need to stand together and raise awareness for young girls to be able to get assistance in times of need, especially unwanted pregnancies.

The mother of the twins, a boy and a girl who were found dead in a rubbish will appear before the court at the end of this month.

Police Commissioner Auapa'au Logoitino Filipo confirmed that she was charged with manslaughter and infanticide.

In the meantime, she has been granted bail and has to report to the Apia Police Station every Wednesday and Friday.

The police during their investigations said the woman concealed her pregnancy from her family and after birth she allegedly abandoned the infants in the bathroom trash bin. 

This incident came to light when the woman seriously fell ill and was taken to hospital by her family. 

According to the Crimes Ordinance Act, infanticide carries a maximum penalty of three (3) years imprisonment, much less than the penalty for murder and manslaughter which is life imprisonment.