Woman Arrested After Toddler Found Locked in Suitcase on Bus

A woman has been charged with child endangerment after a two-year-old girl was discovered locked inside a suitcase on a bus in Kaiwaka, Northland. The incident occurred on March 15, 2024, around 12:50 PM when a passenger requested access to the luggage compartment during a scheduled stop.

Detective Inspector Simon Harrison, Acting Field Crime Manager for the Waitematā District Police, reported that the bus driver became alarmed upon noticing movement from the suitcase. Upon opening the bag, the driver found the toddler inside, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement.

Following the alarming discovery, police were dispatched to the scene. The child was unharmed and taken into protective custody. Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the woman charged or the relationship to the child.

In a statement, Detective Inspector Harrison emphasized the seriousness of the situation. “This is a concerning case. The child’s safety was at risk, and we are thankful the passenger noticed the unusual movement and alerted the driver,” he said.

The police investigation is ongoing, and the woman is expected to face charges related to child endangerment in the coming days. The local community has expressed shock at the incident, highlighting the importance of vigilance in ensuring the safety of children.

As law enforcement continues to piece together the circumstances surrounding this troubling event, further details are anticipated in the coming weeks.