PENANG police detained two women in a raid on a flat in Air Itam, George Town, today, to assist in an investigation into the alleged abuse of two children after photos of the victims went viral yesterday.

Timur Laut police chief Soffian Santong said the two local women, aged 28 and 52, are the mother and grandaunt of the children.

“A man lodged a report at the Air Itam police station at 8am today concerning a Facebook post with photos of two children with facial bruises eating at a stall.

“Following this, police raided the flat at 11.15am.”

During the raid, police rescued a 5-year-old girl and 3-year-old boy who have bruises on the face and body, suspected to be the result of abuse.

Both victims were referred for further examination and treatment to Penang Hospital, while both suspects will be remanded and investigated under section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001.

Those with information concerning the case can contact the North East district police headquarters at 04-218-1822 or the nearest police station. – Bernama, May 27, 2022.