Woman charged with pouring boiling water over nephew (7)

Rosalia Shikodi (40) from Oshidya village in the Ondangwa district has been formally charged with attempted grievous bodily harm and child abuse after allegedly pouring boiling water over her seven-year-old nephew and subjecting him to ongoing mistreatment.

Shikodi, who appeared before magistrate Nelao Ya France yesterday, faces two counts under Namibia’s criminal laws, including a serious assault charge read with provisions of the Domestic Violence Act.

It is alleged that on Monday this week, Shikodi assaulted the minor by burning him with boiling water on the head.

The State claims the act was carried out with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. 

The accused and the victim, who are aunt and nephew, reside in the same house, placing the matter within the scope of domestic violence legislation.

In a second count, Shikodi is accused of contravening provisions of the Child Care and Protection Act. 

The charge sheet alleges that over an unspecified period, Shikodi abused and deliberately neglected the child, including repeatedly assaulting him with weapons, biting him and denying him food, while at times also removing food while he was eating.

If convicted on the child abuse charge, she faces a fine of up to N$50 000, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both. 

The matter was postponed to 17 August and Shikodi was remanded in custody.