NILAI – A 10-year-old boy was discovered trembling and starving outside a convenience store here on Tuesday afternoon, with injuries on his body suspected to be the result of abuse.
Nilai district police chief Superintendent Johari Yahya said the child was found alone at approximately 5.30pm by a food delivery rider.
“The complainant informed us that the child was shivering, frightened and hungry,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
Johari stated that an initial examination of the victim’s body revealed marks suspected to be from physical abuse.
Following the discovery, police detained the boy’s biological mother and stepfather, both in their 30s, at 1.58pm on Wednesday to facilitate investigations.
“The child has been referred to Hospital Tuanku Jaafar in Seremban for a medical examination and further treatment,” he added.
Investigations further revealed that the victim had previously received treatment at Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah in Klang in 2020.
At that time, he suffered non-accidental injuries, including hot water burns to his head, right shoulder, chest and back.
Police will apply for a remand order against the two suspects at the Seremban Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
The case is being investigated under Section 31(1) of the Child Act 2001, which carries a fine or imprisonment upon conviction.
“The police take any form of child abuse seriously and will not compromise with any individual responsible.
“Members of the public are advised to immediately channel information to the police if they suspect child abuse or neglect,” Johari stressed.