Overview

• The two-year-old girl was discovered by the bus driver in a suitcase at the Kaiwaka terminal north of Auckland and taken to hospital for evaluation after showing signs of overheating.
• Police arrested the 27-year-old suspect at the scene and formally charged her with child abuse and negligence, with the possibility of further counts as the investigation continues.
• The suspect is due to appear in North Shore District Court today to face the allegations against her.
• Oranga Tamariki was notified under standard protocols and now oversees the child’s protective care during her hospital stay.
• The case has prompted calls for improved baggage screening procedures on public transport to prevent similar child endangerment incidents.