Ho Chi Minh City: Preschool Child Abuse Allegations Under Investigation, Authorities Report No Signs of Abuse

Authorities in Tam Binh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, have announced that initial investigations into allegations of child abuse at a preschool have not found direct signs of abuse. The allegations, which circulated on social media, concerned a 5-year-old boy at the "Ngoi Nha Xanh" (Green House) independent preschool on Ngo Chi Quoc Street. However, authorities acknowledge that multiple incidents occurred between a teacher and the child, and the police are continuing to interview relevant individuals. According to a preliminary report submitted by the Tam Binh People's Committee to the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee and the Department of Education and Training on July 18, the preschool operates with a valid license and its facilities meet basic standards. Following the mother's social media post, authorities conducted an urgent inspection. The report details that the boy has attended the facility since 2023 and was moved to a senior class on July 6. The teacher stated that the boy often did not sleep during nap times, disturbing other children. On July 7, the teacher reportedly asked the boy to take his bedding outside the classroom, after which the boy slept near the classroom entrance, close to the restroom area. The preschool director stated that they reprimanded the teacher after learning of this incident. Furthermore, on July 14, a teacher allegedly hit the boy's hand when he was playing with water while washing his hands after lunch. Two days later, the specialized manager informed the boy's mother. During a meeting with the family, the teachers involved admitted to these incidents, which the mother subsequently posted on social media. Local authorities visited the family and confirmed that the boy's health and mental state are stable, with no physical injuries observed. The local government has instructed the police to expedite their investigation to reach a final conclusion and plans to strengthen inspections and supervision of all preschool facilities in the area.