Module 1.3

1.3 Indicators of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation

Police officers are often the first to observe warning signs. Recognising these indicators helps identify children who may need urgent protection, even if no complaint has been filed.

Physical Indicators

• Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, fractures or injuries in different stages of healing
• Injuries inconsistent with the explanation given
• Signs of physical restraint or confinement
• Frequent or repeated injuries reported as “accidents”

Behavioural and Emotional Indicators

• Extreme fearfulness, withdrawal or silence, especially in the presence of certain adults
• Aggressive, disruptive or self-harming behaviour
• Sudden changes in behaviour, school performance or daily routine
• Substance use (solvents, drugs, alcohol)
• Running away or repeated attempts to escape home, workplace or institution

Indicators of Sexual Abuse or Exploitation

• Difficulty walking or sitting, complaints of pain in genital area
• Sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy in minors
• Inappropriate sexualised behaviour or knowledge for age
• Possession of gifts, money or items not explained by family income
• Use of hotels, guest houses, online platforms or transport for suspicious purposes

Indicators of Neglect

• Persistent hunger, malnutrition, poor hygiene, unattended medical needs
• Lack of clothing appropriate for weather or conditions
• Young children left alone or under the care of much older siblings for long periods
• Children repeatedly found wandering, begging or working in risky conditions

Indicators of Economic Exploitation

• Child working long hours in hazardous conditions (e.g. machinery, chemicals, heavy loads)
• Child not allowed to leave workplace or speak freely; always accompanied by “employer”
• No access to school, health care or documentation
• Child moved from another district/province, claims not to know address, or seems heavily coached

Rapid Identification Checklist – Is This Child at Risk?

Use this checklist during patrols, complaints, raids or community interactions.

A child may be at risk if one or more apply:

☐ Child appears injured, malnourished or neglected
☐ Child is working in hazardous conditions or long hours
☐ Child is afraid to speak or looks to an adult before answering
☐ Child does not know their address or family details
☐ Child is not attending school or has dropped out
☐ Child shows signs of fear, distress, withdrawal or aggression
☐ Child is found late at night in unsafe locations
☐ Child is accompanied by someone who claims ownership or control
☐ Child lacks documentation (B-form/CNIC of guardian)

Action:
If two or more indicators are present, treat the situation as a potential child protection case and follow referral procedures.