International manhunt launched after man ‘poured scalding coffee over baby in park’
A man is suspected of fleeing to China after allegedly pouring a hot coffee over a baby in a pushchair.
The nine-month-old boy named Luka was with his mum and her friend at Hanlon Park in Brisbane in August last year when the man approached them.
He tipped the scalding coffee over Luka, leaving him with severe burns to his chest, neck and face.
Luka has since undergone eight surgeries.
The suspect, a 33-year-old Chinese national, left the scene immediately.
Chinese authorities have since arrived in Australia to help find the man.
Police believe he boarded a flight to China just hours before he was able to be identified.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) said: ‘The AFP values the ongoing co-operation from Chinese authorities and their shared commitment to pursue all avenues for justice in light of the alleged offender’s location.
‘China has extraterritorial jurisdiction to prosecute its citizens for conduct which occurs outside China.
‘The AFP is working jointly with Chinese authorities on appropriate options to take this matter forward.’
Chinese Ambassador Xiao Qian confirmed his country was helping with the investigation, including sending a ‘working group’.
He said: ‘To talk with Australian colleagues, to see exactly what happened, how it happened, and see how both sides can work together
‘We’re now preparing for the working group to come, so we are serious in addressing this concern, and we’re serious in taking the necessary actions.
Chinese media reported the suspect had entered Australia many times on tourist and student visas.
But his latest application was rejected, leading him to erupt with anger.
‘Finally, he vented his anger and allegedly hurt a baby before leaving Australia,’ reported China’s New Tang Dynasty Television.
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