A mother, Sarah Ngaba, is on trial for causing severe head injuries to her seven-week-old daughter, Eliza, resulting in the baby’s death. Ngaba, 32, admits to causing the injuries but denies murder, claiming she is guilty of infanticide due to a disturbed state of mind post-birth. The prosecutor, Jonas Hankin KC, stated that Eliza died from an infection caused by the injuries inflicted by Ngaba.
The court heard that Ngaba gave birth to Eliza in Homerton Hospital in east London in September 2019 before returning to Telford. Eliza was taken to the hospital after being attacked on November 13, 2019. Ngaba, previously convicted of causing grievous bodily harm, was accused of unlawfully causing Eliza’s death and intending to harm her seriously.
Evidence presented in court revealed that Ngaba delayed seeking medical help for Eliza despite the baby showing signs of distress. Ngaba took her time before calling a taxi to the hospital, even stopping at a supermarket to buy a lottery ticket. Witnesses described Ngaba as calm and detached during the ordeal.
The prosecution argued that Ngaba’s actions, including delaying medical care and showing self-concern rather than prioritizing her baby’s well-being, indicated a lack of urgency and care for her daughter. Ngaba allegedly downplayed Eliza’s condition at the hospital, failing to mention the physical trauma the baby had suffered.
Eliza’s injuries, including a complex skull fracture, were attributed to forceful shaking and a significant impact to the head. The prosecution disputed Ngaba’s claim of a childbirth-related disturbance of mind, arguing that her actions demonstrated anger, frustration, and a lack of self-control.
The trial is ongoing to determine Ngaba’s legal responsibility in the tragic death of her daughter.
