How did mistreated Auckland baby get 16 fractures? Family tight-lipped as case sparks memories of Kahui twins

March 16, 2018

Medial staff discoverer the four-month-old had fractures to her ribs, arms, legs and skull when she was admitted last month.

The family of a seriously hurt Auckland baby are staying tight-lipped, after the four-month-old girl was admitted to Middlemore Hospital with 16 fractures last month.

Police today revealed the horror injuries were "non-accidental" and inflicted over a period of time, while making a public call for help.

They are asking for those who know what happened to speak up, but NZ Herald is reporting the family of the baby have been uncooperative.

Today's sickening details have revived memories of the Kahui twins, Chris and Cru, who died in 2006 aged just three-months-old, after being admitted to Starship Hospital with serious head injuries.

'Do the right thing': Police ask for help after baby girl suffers fractured skull, ribs, arms and legs in likely 'non-accidental injury'

Their father Chris Kahui was charged with their murders but no one was ever convicted over the twins' deaths.

On that occasion family members also declined to help police.

In speaking today, Detective Senior Sergeant Sutherland revealed the Howick baby had suffered fractures to her skull, ribs, arms and legs.

A month on from her arrival at Middlemore Hospital on February 18, police are calling on those that know what happened to "do the right thing".

"Medical staff discovered significant fractures to her body, which included to her skull, ribs, arms and legs," Detective Sutherland said in a statement.

"The fractures have been described by medical experts as being of varying ages and classically associated with non-accidental injury.

"Thankfully, the child is going to make a full recovery however Police are extremely concerned by these injuries and Oranga Tamariki has been notified."

The girl is now in the care of Oranga Tamariki.

"We are now urging anyone with information which can assist our investigation to do the right thing and contact police."

A child advocacy group, Child Matters, said today that violence and control by those harming children and families can affect the ability of other adults to speak up.

"At times, speaking up to protect a child or young person may require assisting government agencies such as the Police and Oranga Tamariki with enquires," CEO Jane Searle said this afternoon.

"This can be frightening and difficult for some - however nothing is more important than the wellbeing and protection of our children."

Police say "anyone with information is urged to contact the Counties Manukau Child Protection team on 09 213 8571 or anonymously to the crime stoppers reporting line on 0800 555 111.

"You can also send us a private message on Facebook," Detective Sutherland said.



SHARE ME

More Stories