The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu.
A 30-year-old woman, Chisom Chukwukere, who allegedly brutalised a 10-year-old boy in Awada, Obosi, in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, has been arrested by the police.
Her husband, Chukwudi, was also arrested over allegations that the couple used burning plastic to inflict severe burns on the child.
The victim, whose video showing extensive injuries across his body recently went viral on social media, had sparked widespread outrage.
Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command arrested the suspects.
At the same time, the woman’s infant child was taken into protective custody by the state Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare on Thursday.
During interrogation, Chisom reportedly pleaded with police and ministry officials to release the infant to her, claiming that the child was unwell and could not be left alone.
A video circulating online showed the suspect appealing to the authorities to return the child to her because the infant was sick and required attention.
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The development has triggered public outrage, with many questioning how someone so concerned about her own child’s welfare could allegedly inflict such severe injuries on another child.
The infant has since been placed in the care of a family member through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said investigations had been intensified and assured that all those found culpable would be brought to justice.
He said, “The police remain steadfast in enforcing laws designed to protect children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and all forms of violence.
“The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has reassured residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to collaborating with relevant government agencies, child protection organisations, and community stakeholders to promote and safeguard the rights, safety, and welfare of children throughout the state.
“The Anambra State Police Command remains committed to promoting justice, compassion, and the protection of human rights in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police.”
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