SIBU: Police have arrested a 21-year-old woman in Julau for allegedly physically abusing and neglecting her four-year-old son, who is now in critical condition at Sibu Hospital.
Julau OCPD Deputy Supt Alif Haiqal Ramesh Abdullah said the case came to light on October 21 when the boy was brought to the hospital’s emergency ward at about 3.30pm with severe head injuries.
"The child was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit after being found with a fractured skull and brain haemorrhage.
"He was reported to be in a weak condition and believed to have not received proper care,” he said in a statement on Saturday (Nov 1).
Following a report lodged the same day, the Julau police opened an investigation and subsequently arrested the child’s mother.
The case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001 for neglecting or exposing a child in a manner likely to cause physical or emotional harm.
DSP Alif Haiqal said the investigation paper has been submitted to the Sarawak State Prosecutor’s Office, which has instructed that the woman be charged under the same section.
“The suspect was brought before the Sarikei Sessions Court on October 31. No plea was recorded, and no bail was offered.
She has been remanded at Sibu Prison until the case mention on Nov 13,” he said.
He stressed that the Police view any form of child neglect seriously and urged the public to remain alert to the welfare of children around them.
“The public is also reminded not to make unfounded speculations that could interfere with investigations. All cases are handled fairly and in accordance with the law,” he added.
