A manhunt has been launched for a man who allegedly kidnapped a 17-month-old baby girl in Botshabelo, east of Bloemfontein, police said on Saturday.

Sergeant Harry Nagel said the incident happened at around 11pm on Friday.

"The baby's mother was attending a funeral night vigil with the baby. She was working inside the house while the baby was playing there too.

"After a while the mother realised that her child was not in the house anymore," said Nagel.

On investigation, the mother was told that an unknown dreadlocked, slender built man had taken the child.

"He was described as light in complexion," said Nagel.

A case of kidnapping has been opened.