Authorities have arrested Beauty Swen, a 34-year-old woman, for allegedly burning the hands of two young girls with hot plastic as punishment for eating cooked cassava belonging to her boyfriend. The victims, identified as Fatu (6), from Sinoe County, and Esther (11), from Nimba County, sustained severe burns to their hands as a result of the abuse.
Both children are currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed care unit in Monrovia, where medical personnel confirm they are responding to treatment but remain under close observation due to the extent of their injuries. According to police investigators, the incident occurred after the two children ate food that the suspect claimed belonged to her boyfriend.
Reports indicate that in an act of anger, Ms. Swen heated plastic and pressed it against the children’s hands, causing painful burns. The case was promptly reported by community members, leading to her arrest. Following her arrest, Ms. Swen was charged with aggravated assault and child endangerment and has since been transferred to the Monrovia Central Prison, where she awaits formal court proceedings. Child rights advocates have condemned the incident, describing it as another alarming case of violence against children in Liberia.
They have called for swift prosecution to ensure justice for the victims and to send a strong message that child abuse will not be tolerated. “This is a tragic reminder of the urgent need for stronger child protection mechanisms in our communities,” one advocate noted. “No child should have to endure such cruelty. We urge the courts to act swiftly and fairly in this matter.” Authorities have assured the public that the case will be prosecuted in accordance with the law and that the welfare of the children remains a top priority.
