CPU Investigates Infant’s Death

Press release from Child Protection Unit:

TASK FORCE CHARLIE-19 
Investigate death of a Toddler (18mth old) in Steung Treng

On the 16th of March 2019, at about 8am the parents of an 18mth old child left him with a group of other children while they went to work on a cashew nut plantation in Anlong Svay Village, Thalaborrywat District, Stung Treng Province. The parents were not far from the group of children and would check on their son as they worked. Some time before 11am the child disappeared.

A search commenced immediately and local police were called. The searches worked into the night however the child was not located. Additional Police resources from Steung Treng Police Command were called into assist alongside locals and farmers and searches continued over the next 2 days.

At 11am on the 19th of March 2019 the body of the child was discovered in thick bush some 1.5km from where he had been last seen. CPU were called and attended with additional Forensic resources from Phnom Penh.

A thorough investigation has been conducted into the disappearance and likely cause of death of the child. Further forensic tests will be undertaken.

This is a tragic incident for all involved. It is a timely reminder that all young children are vulnerable and need close supervision especially when near water and in unfamiliar surroundings.

RIP little one, an extremely sad way for life to end.