GEORGE TOWN – Penang police managed to rescue two siblings aged 5 and 3 who were suspected of being abused by their family members in Air Itam, here.
Northeast district police chief Soffian Santong said the authorities received a report from a man at about 8am this morning, who reported seeing a post on Facebook about two children eating at a restaurant with multiple face injuries.
“The complainant lodged a police report because he suspected that the two children may be victims of abuse.
“At 11.15am, police then raided a flat in the Air Itam area, and managed to rescue the two children,” he said in a statement today.
Soffian said police also arrested two local female suspects, namely the victim’s mother and grandaunt, aged 28 and 52 respectively.
He said the initial examination on the bodies of the two had found wounds and bruises on the face and body suspected to be the result of abuse.
“Both victims will be referred to Penang Hospital for further treatment and examination.
“The case is being investigated under Section 31 (1) (a) of the Children Act 2001 which carries a jail term not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding RM20,000 or both.”
Soffian also requested that people call 04-218-1822 or go to any nearby police station for any information regarding the case.
Earlier, a photo went viral on social media showing two children eating with their family members, with their faces full of bruises.
It invited a sympathetic reaction from the public who also hoped that the two children could be saved. – The Vibes, May 27, 2022