China Taskforce to Probe Brisbane Baby Scalding

Chinese authorities have confirmed that a joint taskforce will travel to Brisbane to investigate the alleged scalding of a nine-month-old baby at a local playground. The incident occurred on August 27, 2024, when a man reportedly threw a thermos of hot coffee over the infant, Luka, while he was at Hanlon Park with his mother. Luka has since undergone at least eight surgeries for horrific burns to his chest, neck, and face, covering 60 percent of his body.

The suspect, a 33-year-old Chinese national, fled the scene and reportedly departed Australia for China before being identified. Over 18 months later, China's Ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, announced a 'working group' would visit Brisbane to collaborate with Australian colleagues. Queensland Police and the Australian Federal Police are supporting this visit, emphasizing cooperation to pursue all avenues for justice, noting China's extraterritorial jurisdiction over its citizens.

Chinese media reports suggest the man's visa application had been rejected, leading to frustration that may have culminated in the attack. He had a history of entering and exiting Australia on various visas since 2019. Despite the lack of an extradition agreement between Australia and China, authorities remain confident in their efforts to achieve accountability for the child's severe injuries.