A quiet community in Ghana’s Western North Region is reeling in shock after a 31-year-old mother was arrested for allegedly using a pair of scissors to sever her young daughter’s toe as punishment for returning home late.
Vivian Anto of Sefwi Proso is currently in police custody assisting with investigations. The disturbing incident happened on Thursday, April 3, 2026, at about 9:30 a.m. in Juaboso District. According to police reports, Anto allegedly took a pair of scissors and cut off the right index toe of her 9-year-old daughter, Diana Boakye.
The case came to light when a relative, Stephen Anto, rushed to the police station around 4:20 p.m. the same day to report the alleged assault.
Officers quickly responded, visited Kofikrom SDA Hospital where the little girl had been rushed for treatment, and confirmed the injury during examination.Doctors say Diana is currently on admission and responding well to treatment.
In a small mercy, the severed toe was recovered from the scene, properly documented and preserved as key evidence in the case.Residents of Juaboso are struggling to come to terms with the news. Many describe the act as heartbreaking and completely out of character for what they knew of the family. Child protection advocates and community leaders have expressed deep concern, calling for swift justice while also urging greater awareness around parenting and child discipline.
Police have described the case as serious and sensitive. Investigators are continuing their inquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The suspect is expected to be arraigned before court after the Easter break.For now, the focus remains on the young victim.
Diana is receiving medical care, and authorities are ensuring she is safe while the legal process unfolds.
Social welfare officers are also expected to be involved to provide the necessary support for the child and any siblings.This incident has once again thrown the spotlight on child protection issues in Ghana. While most parents discipline their children with love and care, cases like this remind everyone that crossing the line into physical harm has serious legal consequences.
Child abuse, in any form, is a crime that the law takes very seriously.The people of Juaboso and the wider Western North Region are watching closely.
Many are praying for Diana’s full and speedy recovery, both physically and emotionally. They also hope the case will serve as a strong deterrent against any form of violence towards children, no matter the reason.
As investigations continue, police have appealed for anyone with useful information to come forward. For little Diana, the road to healing has just begun – but the entire community is rallying behind her, determined to ensure she gets the justice and care she deserves.