A 30-year-old woman, Chisom Chukwukere, has been arrested by the police in Awada, Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State over allegations that she brutally assaulted a 10-year-old boy.
According to The Punch, her husband, Chukwudi, was also taken into custody in connection with claims that the couple used burning plastic to inflict severe injuries on the child.
The case gained widespread attention after a video of the young victim, showing severe burns across his body, went viral on social media, triggering public outrage.
Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command carried out the arrest of the suspects, while the state Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare also intervened, taking the woman’s infant child into protective custody on Thursday.
During interrogation, Chisom reportedly begged authorities to release her infant child, insisting the baby was unwell and needed urgent care. A circulating video also showed her appealing to officials on the same grounds.
The situation has since sparked further public debate, with many questioning how someone accused of such brutality toward another child could be so concerned about the welfare of her own infant.
The infant has since been handed over to a family member under the supervision of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare.
Confirming the arrests and ongoing investigation, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said authorities were intensifying efforts to ensure justice is served.
He stated, “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.”
