Child Abuse Incident at Daycare Centre in Puncak Alam
Arrest Made in Connection with Injuries to 11-Month-Old Baby
A 24-year-old teacher was arrested on Saturday evening for allegedly abusing an 11-month-old baby boy at a daycare centre in Puncak Alam, Puncak Alam.
The Incident
According to Sungai Buloh police chief Hafiz Nor, the suspect is believed to have pinched the baby, causing injuries to his cheek and right ear. The incident occurred on Friday, and the baby’s mother noticed the bruises when she picked him up from the daycare at around 6:15 pm.
Initial Denial
Initially, the daycare teacher told the mother that the bruising was caused by the baby falling from a table at the centre. However, at 7:30 pm, the daycare supervisor contacted the baby’s father and informed him that the bruising on the baby’s cheek and right ear was a result of the actions of one of their workers.
Investigation
Hafiz said that a remand order has been granted by the court in Shah Alam, and the suspect will be held until Wednesday to assist in investigations. Four witnesses have provided statements, and a review of the daycare’s closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage has been conducted.
Initial Checks of CCTV Footage
"Initial checks of the CCTV footage reveal that there was an element of abuse involved in the incident," Hafiz said. "Investigations also revealed that the suspect had been working at the daycare for about three years."
Probing Under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001
The probe is being carried out under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, which carries a penalty of a maximum fine of RM50,000, up to 20 years in prison, or both.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of children in care. It is crucial that daycare centres and other institutions take necessary measures to prevent such incidents from occurring and to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the age of the baby involved in the incident?
- 11 months old
- How old was the suspect?
- 24 years old
- How long had the suspect been working at the daycare centre?
- About three years
- What was the penalty for the suspected crime?
- A maximum fine of RM50,000, up to 20 years in prison, or both