SIBU: A four-year-old boy, believed to have been neglected by his mother, died while receiving treatment at the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Sibu Hospital on Oct 25.
Julau OCPD Deputy Supt Alif Haiqal Ramesh Abdullah confirmed the child’s death, adding that the case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001 for neglect of a child resulting in death.
According to him, the investigation began on Oct 21 after the victim was brought to Sibu Hospital’s Emergency Ward at about 3.30pm in an unconscious state.
“The child was later admitted to the Paediatric ICU after suffering a skull fracture and brain haemorrhage.
“He was reported to be in a weak condition and is believed to have not received adequate care before passing away on October 25”, he said on Sunday (Nov 2).
Following the report, the Criminal Investigation Division of the Julau Police Headquarters opened an investigation file and arrested the victim’s biological mother on the same day to assist with the investigation.
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DSP Alif Haiqal said the suspect was brought before the Sarikei Sessions Court on Oct 31.
No plea was recorded, and the court did not grant bail.
The suspect is currently being held at Sibu Prison pending the next mention of the case on Nov 13.
He stressed that the police take all cases of child neglect seriously and urged the public not to make any speculation that could interfere with the investigation.
