Fewer child abuse cases reported in January, ministry says

The number of child abuse cases reported in January fell compared to December last year, according to the Ministry of Social and Family Development.

The ministry received 85 cases of child abuse in December 2025. In January 2026, the number dropped to 64 cases, a decrease of 21 cases.

Neglect remained the most commonly reported form of abuse, with 30 cases recorded in January. The ministry also received 13 cases of sexual assault, eight cases involving exposure to domestic violence, seven cases of psychological harm, and four cases of physical harm.

As of January last year, 151 children were under state care, 83 boys and 68 girls, the ministry said.

The ministry’s helplines also saw heavy usage, receiving more than 2,200 calls in January. The child helpline 1412 alone received 1,964 calls, including 97 calls from children. Over 1,600 calls were made by adults, while 216 calls were anonymous.