A heartbreaking and shocking case came to light in New Zealand when a 2-year-old girl was found inside a suitcase in a bus’s luggage compartment. The disturbing discovery was made on Sunday, August 3, around 12:50 p.m. local time, during a scheduled bus stop in the small town of Kaiwaka, located on New Zealand’s North Island.
Suitcase Was Moving – Driver Got Suspicious
According to New Zealand Police, the situation unfolded when a passenger requested access to the luggage area of the bus. At that moment, the bus driver noticed something strange — one of the suitcases seemed to be moving. Concerned, the driver opened the bag and was shocked to find a little girl inside, wearing only a diaper.
Thankfully, the child was still alive. Although she was very hot due to being locked in the suitcase for nearly an hour, she did not show any serious physical injuries. She was quickly taken to the hospital for a full medical check-up and is currently under observation.
Woman Arrested and Charged
A 27-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with the case. While police have not released her name, she has been charged with child neglect and ill-treatment. She is expected to appear in Auckland’s North Shore District Court on Monday, August 4.
Police are continuing their investigation and have said that more charges could be added as the case progresses.
Praise for Quick Action by Bus Driver
Acting Detective Inspector Simon Harrison from the Waitematā Criminal Investigation Branch praised the quick thinking of the bus driver. He said that the driver’s decision to check the moving suitcase likely saved the child’s life and prevented a much worse outcome.
Authorities have also informed Oranga Tamariki, New Zealand’s Ministry for Children, and are working closely with them to ensure the child receives proper care and support.
Investigation Still Ongoing
As of now, police are not releasing any more details, citing the sensitive nature of the case and the ongoing legal process. They have also acknowledged the high public interest but are focused on the well-being of the child.
The child is reported to be “medically well” and in safe hands. Police are working with her family and social services to make sure she gets the support she needs.
This case has shocked many across New Zealand and the world. The idea of a small child being hidden in a suitcase is both disturbing and heartbreaking. Thankfully, due to the alertness of the bus driver and quick action from the police, the toddler was saved just in time.
Authorities are now doing everything they can to ensure the little girl is safe, cared for, and protected from future harm. The investigation is ongoing, and more details may come out after the court proceedings.
