The investigation into the death of young Valencia, who died at Akamasoa after suffering severe violence, has reached a new development. Arrested by the National Police on July 26, the girl's father, the main suspect in this case that has deeply shaken public opinion, was first handed over to the Criminal Brigade of Anosy before being referred to the prosecutor on July 29. Following this procedure, he was placed in custody at Tsiafahy prison. The Valencia case continues to stir strong emotions across the country. Behind this name lies the tragic fate of an eight-year-old girl whose death sent shockwaves, both because of the circumstances of the tragedy and the revelations that followed. According to initial investigation findings, the events occurred at the family home in Akamasoa. The father allegedly lost his temper after reproaching his daughter for losing a sum of 5,000 ariary. In his anger, he allegedly struck her multiple times, notably with a broomstick. Seriously injured, the child was rushed to a health center but died shortly after. Forensic findings concluded that she died from a fractured cervical vertebra. As soon as the news spread, crowds of residents gathered outside police headquarters where the suspect was being held. Tensions quickly escalated and the risk of mob justice became real. To prevent any escalation, significant reinforcements were deployed. Gendarmes from Ambohimangakely and Soamanandrariny intervened alongside police from the Sabotsy Namehana precinct to secure the area. Mediation led by local authorities, in which Father Pedro participated, eventually restored calm and dispersed the crowd.
Sexual Violence
During investigations, the case took on an even more tragic dimension. Evidence gathered by investigators suggests the girl may have been a victim of repeated sexual violence before her death. These alleged facts are now the subject of in-depth investigations and will need to be confirmed or refuted by judicial proceedings. The tragedy is all the more poignant because Valencia's mother is currently detained at Antanimora prison in connection with another judicial matter. According to information from her relatives, she learned of her daughter's death from her cell and will not be able to attend her funeral. With the father's placement in custody at Tsiafahy prison, a first judicial step has been taken. Nevertheless, the investigation is far from over. Investigations conducted by the Criminal Brigade of Anosy continue to establish precisely all the circumstances of this tragedy that has deeply moved Malagasy people and reignites, once again, the debate on protecting children from domestic violence.