Anambra Mother Arrested After 7-Year-Old Girl Allegedly Injured With Hot Knife
A 32-year-old woman has been arrested in Anambra State for allegedly beating her seven-year-old daughter with a hot knife.
The incident took place in Ibollo community of Awada-Obosi Local Government Area of Idemili North on September 13 and was reported to the police.
The Anambra State Police Command said the child was hurt when she was accused of stealing meat from a cooking pot.
When community security personnel and concerned residents were informed of the alleged abuse, they intervened and the child was removed from the situation and the mother was arrested.
Police investigations are ongoing and the suspect, Ogechi Ofoma, is being detained at Awada Police Station.
The police said they are collaborating with the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare to provide the child with immediate medical attention, protection and proper welfare.
The Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Anambra State, Esther Onyekesi, condemned the alleged abuse, calling it an inhumane act and a violation of the child’s rights and dignity.
She praised the prompt response of the community members and the police and encouraged the community to report any suspected cases of child maltreatment, neglect, molestation or any threat to the safety of children.
The police stated the investigation would be comprehensive and the welfare, safety and best interests of the child would be at the heart of the response.
The incident serves as a reminder of the need for community awareness and prompt reporting to protect children from violence and to respond to allegations of abuse.
