A girl whose parents were arrested for alleged child abuse will be placed under care along with her two siblings, according to Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun.

The parents were arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of "ill-treatment or neglect by those in charge of child or young person" after an online video went viral, showing the 10-year-old girl carrying packs of beers at Fu Tai Estate in Tuen Mun as her father stood beside her.

She and her younger sister and brother were then taken to hospital for examination.

The parents were later released on bail.

Sun said the three youngsters would be discharged as soon as Friday.

“Based on the Social Welfare Department's assessment, it is not suitable for them to return home at this stage," he said.

"So we have already arranged for them to be placed in temporary and suitable accommodation upon their discharge.

“They might not be able to live together because some are older and some are younger.

"We will help arrange for a suitable residential care home to take care of the three siblings. We think that's the most appropriate.”

A multi-disciplinary case conference with the relevant professionals will be convened in more than a week’s time to review the family's situation, care needs, the safety risks facing the children, as well as their long-term welfare needs, Sun said.

Authorities may then apply for a care or protection order from the court if the family’s situation is deemed unsuitable, he said, adding that the three siblings will not be allowed to return home until a final decision is made.

The welfare chief also said the Social Welfare Department is currently reviewing the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance status of the family, and it would refer the case to the police if serious violations are found.


Edited by Edmond Fong