A three-month-old baby boy is fighting for his life at Makarios Hospital after being diagnosed with shaken baby syndrome, with police arresting his 28-year-old father on suspicion of causing the injuries.
The baby was transferred to hospital on Friday 23 January in serious condition. Radiological examinations revealed a brain haematoma, and doctors performed surgery.
He remains intubated in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit in critical condition, according to State Health Services Organisation spokesman Pambos Charilaou.
After medical examinations, doctors concluded the baby was suffering from shaken baby syndrome and notified authorities on Monday.
Nicosia CID arrested the father this morning and he appeared before Nicosia District Court at noon, which issued a four-day detention order. Police initially requested eight days but agreed to four after discussions. The suspect’s lawyer did not object.
Police are investigating offences including causing grievous bodily harm, child exposure, maltreatment of a child under 16, and other negligent acts intending bodily harm.
The court found police suspicions reasonable that the suspect may be involved in the baby’s injuries, particularly given he was alone with the child when the alleged offences occurred.
Police Press Office Head Christodoulos Konsolos confirmed on CyBC that previous complaints against the 28-year-old father for abuse were pending.
The father denies any involvement. He told the court he will call the baby’s paediatrician as a witness.
Nicosia CID investigations continue, with statements expected from doctors, neighbours, and family members.
