A couple who have been charged with manslaughter by negligence over the death of their six-month-old baby boy earlier this month were released on bail on 24 February.

The mother Siulolovao Mafi (28) and father ‘Iteni Latu (32) from Fangaloto were released on bail by the Nuku’alofa Magistrate’s Court and ordered to appear in court on 31 March.

According to the police reports, the baby suffered diarrhea and vomiting on January 30. The parents, who are in a de-facto relationship did not seek any medical assistance, and it was alleged that the baby died at home on February 2, before the parents rushed him to Vaiola Hospital.

The hospital notified the police and an investigation into the death resulted in the couple being arrested and charged on February 18.

The police alleged that the cause of death was due to dehydration because of an intense case of diarrhea and vomiting.