Morung Express News
Dimapur | June 29
A case of alleged child abuse has surfaced in Pfutsero town, Phek district, after the mother of an 11-year-old girl filed a police complaint on June 29, accusing the child’s foster guardian of prolonged physical and psychological abuse.
The child, reportedly in the care of a relative, was found with visible bruises and cut marks on her body, triggering alarm among residents and civil society groups. According to initial accounts, the child was threatened to remain silent about the abuse, which came to light after photographs surfaced on social media.
Police officials confirmed that they are in the process of registering a case.
Meanwhile, several organisations in Pfutsero have issued public statements condemning the alleged abuse and calling for legal action.
The Rukizu Colony Council also condemned the incident in strong terms, stating that the child had been subjected to “repeated physical and mental torture” while in the custody of the accused. “Such inhumane and unlawful behavior not only violates the fundamental rights of the child but also brings shame and dishonor to the moral fabric of the community,” the council stated. The accused has been permanently barred from residing in the colony or taking part in any communal activity.
The Rukizu Youth Organisation (RYO) described the incident as “an atrocious act of violence and inhumane behaviour” that is “unprecedented in our society and culture.” Expressing solidarity with the Rukizu Colony Council’s decision, the RYO supported the expulsion of the accused from the colony and urged law enforcement to initiate swift action. “It is imperative that the accused be punished accordingly as per the provisions of the law,” the organization said in a statement.
The Pfutsero Town Mothers’ Association (PTMA) said it was “deeply saddened and disheartened” by what it termed an “inhuman act” that amounted to an “attempt to murder.” The association condemned the breach of trust by someone entrusted with a “sacred responsibility” and urged law enforcement to act swiftly. “PTMA stands in full solidarity with the victim and the family and solemnly reaffirms our community’s zero tolerance toward acts that threaten the safety and dignity of our people,” it stated.
