Husband and wife are in Police custody in Balaka for allegedly neglecting to provide medical attention to their child.

Balaka Police confirmed of the development in an interview with the State controlled media (MBC 1).

The suspects Isaac Chindimba 48, who is biological father and Martha Banda 42, a step mother said their faith does not allow them to take medicine.

They are of the Apostolic Church. According to the Child Protection Officer for Balaka Police Sergeant Elias Sungani, the victim is a form 2 student and instead of giving her medicine, the parents were just praying and giving her anointing water.

And when the neighbours and relatives saw the condition of the girl, they reported the matter to Balaka Police Child Protection Office who rushed to the scene and took the child to Balaka District hospital amid resistance from the parents.

The girl has since been admitted and medical examination has proved that she has cerebral malaria and was at a critical stage. Meanwhile, the couple is expected to appear before court.

They are from Ndoya village, in the area of Senior Chief Nsamala in the district.