The Child Protection Alliance has condemned the abuse of an eight-year-old girl and called for the suspect to be punished. 

The child protection group’s call comes after the police detained a 30-year-old woman who was seen in a viral video mercilessly beating the child with a pestle causing her severe injuries.

In a statement, Child Protection Alliance said: “The alleged act is criminal and a gross violation of the rights of the minor.

“It is important to note that there is no ambiguity in Section 22 of the Children’s Act which clearly challenged parents or guardians to administer domestic discipline in a manner consistent with the inherent dignity of the child; thus, leaving no room for any form of physical or mental abuse of children. 

“We therefore condemn the alleged act in totality and urge the public to desist from such brutal and gruesome acts against children.”

“While we thank The Gambia Police Force for their intervention in arresting the suspect, we demand a thorough investigation of the matter. The suspect must be punished in accordance with the law if found guilty of committing the alleged crime,” the statement added.

The organisation urged people to report suspected cases of child abuse to the nearest police station or call the National Child Helpline on 199.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba