PONTIAN: A 5-year-old boy, who was found alone in a cornfield in Kampung Pulai Sebatang, Ayer Baloi, on Dec 29, has been claimed by his aunt.
District police chief Superintendent Mohammad Shofee Tayib said the child was handed over to Welfare Department, when nobody came forward.
On Dec 30, police were informed that a 42-year-old woman who was verified by the department as his aunt, came forward and took him into her custody.
Shofee said that once the boy's identity was established, police were able to identify his parents.
"Checks revealed that both his parents had prior drug records, and we hope to establish their whereabouts.
"We are investigating why the boy was left alone in the cornfield," he said when contacted today.
Investigations under Section 31(1) of the Child Act 2001, for child neglect is underway.
If convicted, the parents could face a fine of up to RM50,000 or a maximum 20-year prison sentence, or both.