Toddler Found in Suitcase on NZ Bus
Child Discovered During Routine Stop
A harrowing discovery was made on a New Zealand bus when a toddler was found crammed inside a suitcase in the luggage compartment. The young child, reportedly only wearing a nappy, was discovered by the bus driver during a stop in Kaiwaka, north of Auckland.
Child Found After Driver’s Concern
The alarming incident unfolded when the InterCity bus stopped in Kaiwaka. The driver became suspicious after hearing movement from the luggage area. Upon investigation, he opened a suitcase to find the two-year-old girl.
Police were alerted around 12:50 PM. Officials stated the toddler was very hot but appeared physically unharmed at the time of discovery. The incident has led to a woman facing charges.
Charges Filed as Investigation Continues
A 27-year-old woman is scheduled to appear in court on Monday at Auckland’s North Shore. She faces charges related to the ill-treatment or neglect of a child. Authorities confirmed the investigation is active.
An InterCity spokesperson acknowledged the incident involving a passenger on Sunday. They assured that no one was harmed and the bus service has since resumed normal operations. The company declined further comment due to the ongoing police investigation.
Child neglect remains a significant concern globally. In the UK, for example, there were 5,192 convictions for child cruelty offences in the year ending March 2023 (UK Government 2023).
