Police arrest couple in 'unregistered birth' saga

A man and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of child neglect over a baby said to have been left without a birth certificate following a home birth.

The couple's story sparked debate online after they spoke about attempts to be reunited with another child that was placed in foster care in Sweden a number of years ago.

The pair have refused to provide a DNA sample in order to obtain a birth certificate for a baby boy in their care after failing to register a birth within the timeframe set out in law.

Security Secretary Chris Tang said police found the couple and the child in Cheung Sha Wan on Tuesday.

The boy was to be taken to hospital for a health check, Tang said.

"The mother has not yet provided any records of prenatal care or medical examinations, and refused to provide a DNA sample. She has not even provided any photos of herself while pregnant," the minister told reporters.

"The individuals claiming to be the parents have never taken him to hospital for a physical examination."

Tang added that he hopes the couple will quickly provide proof of their relationship to the boy.

Edited by Thomas McAlinden ...