The mother of a newborn child who was placed in a pit latrine in Bokwaongo, Buea, early on January 15, 2025, has been arrested, but the child is said to be safe and making steady development.
The male infant, still unnamed, miraculously survived after his mother, 24-year-old Tanisla Uya, admitted to dumping him in the toilet.
Paediatrician Dr. Yolande Fokam Puepi, who examined the baby upon admission at the Buea Regional Hospital, described his initial state as critical.
“The baby was very cold, inactive, and covered in residues, indicating he spent a significant amount of time in the pit toilet.
He is now receiving treatment, including intravenous medications, to address potential infections and to clear his stomach of ingested contaminants,” Dr. Fokam explained.
According to the police, Tanisla Uya, the offender, is presently receiving medical attention at the Buea Regional Hospital and will be put on trial as soon as she is released.
Police have classified her act as infanticide, a serious offense carrying significant legal consequences.
“This action is not only criminal but barbaric,” said Sen Suzanne, Chief of Service of Social Action Service at Buea Regional Hospital.
“We have launched investigations to understand the circumstances that led to such an act, and a detailed report will be submitted to the State Counsel for further legal action.”
The child dumped in the pit toilet is the second child of Tanisla Uya.
Her first, aged one year and four months, is reportedly in the care of extended family members.
Sen Suzanne confirmed that the rescued child will be placed in an orphanage for temporary care while investigations continue.
She emphasized that Uya’s family has the right to claim custody of the newborn child, but only after a thorough assessment of their ability to provide proper care.
Legal experts are weighing in on the case with Barrister Abang Grace Anitoh Negbor, referencing Section 282 of the Penal Code, which criminalizes the desertion of incapable persons.
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