Couple arrested for neglecting child Balaka, November 14, 2014: Police in Balaka are keeping in custody husband and wife for allegedly neglecting to provide medical attention to their child. The suspects, Isaac Chindimba 48, who is biological father and Martha Banda 42, a step mother of apostolic faith refused to take their sick child to the hospital for treatment since their faith does not allow them to take medicine. According to the Child Protection Officer for Balaka, Police Sergeant Elias Sungani, the victim is a form two student and she fell sick while at school, a development that forced the school management to send her back home. Upon arrival at home, the parents who are devoted apostolic members declined to take the child to the hospital for treatment because their faith does not allow its members to take medicine so instead they were just praying for her and giving her anointing water. When the neighbours and relatives saw the condition of the girl, they reported the matter to Balaka Police Child Protection Office who rushed to the home and took the child to Balaka District hospital amid resistance from the parents. The girl has since been admitted and medical examination has proved that the girl has cerebral malaria and was at a critical stage. Meanwhile, Police have arrested the couple who are expected to appear before court soon to answer a case of neglecting to provide medical attention to their child which is contrary to section 165 of the penal code and it is also an offence according to Child care, Protection and Justice Act of 2010. Both suspects come from Ndoya village, in the area of Senior Chief Nsamala in the same district of Balaka. Meanwhile, the Police are warning the general public that it is an offence punishable by law for a parent or guardian to neglect providing adequate diet, clothing, shelter, medical attention and other necessities to their children.
Posted on: Fri, 14 Nov 2014 11:30:56 +0000