By Izunna Okafor, Awka
A Magistrate’s Court in Anambra State has remanded a couple, Mr. Chukwudi Chukwuyere, 40, and his wife, Mrs. Chisom Chukwuyere, 30, in a correctional centre over the alleged abuse of a 10-year-old boy in Isiowulu community, as the police continue efforts to ensure justice for the victim.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued to newsmen by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who said the suspects were arraigned after the conclusion of preliminary investigations into the case.
According to the police spokesman, the case generated outrage after disturbing videos and photographs surfaced on social media showing the boy with severe injuries and burn wounds that resulted from the couple’s maltreatment of the boy with melted hot plastic 6, prompting public concern and calls for justice.
SP Ikenga recalled that the child was rescued following information provided by concerned residents, while investigations led to the arrest of the couple over their alleged involvement in the abuse.
The police had earlier disclosed that the victim sustained multiple injuries, with preliminary investigations indicating that the female suspect allegedly used melted hot plastic to inflict burns on the boy. The child was subsequently taken into protective care and provided with urgent medical attention.
The Police Command commended residents of the area for their vigilance, cooperation and timely information, noting that their intervention played a crucial role in rescuing the victim and ensuring that the suspects were brought to justice.
The Command also reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of children and other vulnerable members of society, stressing that it would continue to pursue justice in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police.
SP Ikenga added that further developments in the matter would be made available as the prosecution progresses.
