A mother of Kitwe has been left traumatized after a young boy, aged between four and six, caused the death of her five-year-old daughter.

The child is believed to have approached the victim with a lit matchstick and set her on fire. The fire ignited her dress, causing severe burns.

Unfortunately, the girl succumbed to her injuries.

Copperbelt Province outgoing police commanding officer, Peacewell Mweemba, said the incident occurred on June 15 this year.

Mr Mweemba said the incident was reported by the victim’s 28-year-old mother.

“Brief facts of the matter are that on June 15, around 08:00 hours, the mother of the deceased child left home for work at Nakadoli market, where she works as a sales lady, leaving the girl in the custody of her uncle,” he said.

Mr Mweemba explained that at 15:00 hours, the girl went to play with her friend.

“While playing with her friend, the juvenile suspect, aged between four and six, came from across the road and lit a matchstick, burning the bottom part of her dress, which caught fire and caused severe burns all over her body. She was rescued by Elizabeth Muma, who then rushed her to Kawama Clinic after informing the mother,” he said.

He said the child was later referred to Kitwe Teaching Hospital, where she was admitted.

Mr Mweemba added that on June 29 this year, the child succumbed to the injuries sustained.