Two domestic helpers have been arrested on suspicion of child abuse after a four-month-old infant was found with severe brain injuries, while his 16-month-old brother was discovered with bruises at a residence in Sheung Shui.
(Read more: 2 maids arrested after 4-month-old boy found with brain bleed; father calls it 'murder')
The younger child remains in critical condition in intensive care following brain surgery, while his elder brother is reported to be in stable condition. Both children are currently hospitalized.
Police said in a press briefing on Wednesday that the children were mainly cared for by the two suspects — a 28-year-old Filipino domestic helper and a 45-year-old Indonesian domestic helper — who have been employed by the family for three months and about six months, respectively.
Officers received a report from Prince of Wales Hospital on Sunday after doctors identified suspicious injuries on the four-month-old infant, including bleeding in the brain and retina. The injuries were consistent with what is commonly known as “shaken baby syndrome,” police said.
Subsequent investigations found bruises on both children. The two domestic helpers were arrested on Tuesday.
After reviewing CCTV footage, investigators believe the 28-year-old suspect allegedly harmed the four-month-old infant in the early hours of Sunday and is also suspected of injuring the 16-month-old child.
When asked about the duration and extent of the alleged abuse, police said the home surveillance system only covered the living room area. No severe abuse was observed in footage from the past few days.
Police said investigations are ongoing and that medical experts will be consulted to determine how the injuries were inflicted and whether there is evidence of prolonged abuse. Officers will also examine the family background and caregiving arrangements.
Doctors have indicated that symptoms associated with “shaken baby syndrome” do not typically occur from a single incident, police added.
The 28-year-old suspect has been charged with “ill-treatment or neglect by those in charge of a child or young person” and will appear at Fanling Magistrates’ Courts on Thursday. Police said investigations into the 45-year-old suspect are continuing.
Separately, a person claiming to be the infant’s father posted on social media on Tuesday, alleging that his son had been violently shaken and choked, resulting in brain bleeding. He said the child suddenly lost consciousness and was taken to the hospital by ambulance. Police did not comment on the online claims.
