By Christopher Miti
A three-year-old boy from Kasenengwa District is being treated for severe burns at Chipata Central Hospital after his mother allegedly dipped his hands in hot water as a form of punishment.
The suspect, JENNIFER MWANZA, 38, of Mutanta Village under Chief CHIKUWE, is accused of burning her son after he ate fritters brought by his stepfather.
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer ROBERTSON MWEEMBA says the incident took place around 20:00 hours on Saturday and was reported to Chiparamba Police Post yesterday.
Mr. MWEEMBA explained that the boy’s stepfather, JACOB NGOMA, had brought fritters from the local market. While some were given to the child, others were left on the table. After eating one fritter, the boy helped himself to another, which reportedly upset his stepfather.
Mr. MWEEMBA said the stepfather complained to the mother and insisted the child should be punished.
Although the mother initially apologised for her son’s behaviour, Mr. NGOMA continued to press the matter.
In response, the mother allegedly dragged the boy outside and dipped his hands into a large pot of hot water.
The boy was rescued by his stepfather after he heard him crying.
He was initially taken to Mzeyi Mini-Hospital before being referred to Chipata Central Hospital for further treatment.
The boy’s mother was arrested by the police but has since been released on police bond due to her mental health condition and the fact that she is the mother of a one-year-old child.
ZNBC