KINGSLEY EBERE
A woman, Mrs. Juliet Igwe, has been arrested and charged for cruelty by allegedly inserting a burning candle light into the private part of her 5-year old girl in Imo State.
Thus, the Magistrate Court sitting in Owerri has ordered the remand of Mrs. Igwe at the Owerri Correctional Centre over allegations of grievous harm and attempted murder involving a five-year-old girl.
The court ruled that the offence is a serious one, noting that it carries a possible punishment of life imprisonment under the Criminal Law of the State.
Based on this, the Magistrate directed that the defendant be remanded in custody pending further proceedings on the case.
The matter was reported to the Police at the State Command in Owerri and the defendant was arrested and detained for interrogation over her alleged conduct by
using the candlelight to inflict injuries on the victim’s private over an undisclosed matter.
After thorough interrogation, the Police found her culpable and charged her before the Court, which ordered her remand in custody pending the outcome of DPP’s advice, which will determine if the matter will be transferred to the High Court or not over jurisdiction.
Reacting to the development, the Stand For Humanity Foundation expressed appreciation to the court for what it described as a bold and decisive step toward ensuring justice for the child.
The case has continued to attract public attention with rights advocates calling for diligent prosecution and sustained medical and emotional support for the minor involved.