Couple confirmed as parents of infant born via ‘free birth’ after DNA tests

A Hong Kong couple, Tsang Wai-bong and Kwan Pui-sin, arrested on suspicion of child neglect, have been confirmed as the biological parents of a two-month-old infant boy named Danny. Local media reported on Thursday, citing unnamed government sources, that DNA test results verified their parentage.

The couple initially opposed the DNA tests but agreed to undergo them on Wednesday, a day after their arrest. The government had mandated the tests to register the baby's birth. According to reports, Tsang and Kwan were released on HK$1,000 bail and assisted with an investigation at the Immigration Department headquarters.

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The arrest was well-intended, as [the authorities] helped us clarify the parental relationship and whether we had committed child abuse. They were rather concerned about our son, whether medical care had been inadequate and that his parents’ identities had not been confirmed.

Security chief Chris Tang stated on Tuesday that the baby had not received any medical check-ups since birth, constituting child neglect. The parents claimed they practiced "free births," a method of unassisted childbirth without professional medical intervention, and that their son was born in Hong Kong approximately two months ago. Hong Kong law requires birth registration within 42 days.

Stephanie Lee, a senior social work officer, confirmed that the baby is under a court-granted child protection order and is being cared for by professionals at Caritas Medical Centre. He will be moved to a care home. The Social Welfare Department will submit a report to the court to determine further welfare arrangements. The parents believe their son will be safe with the authorities and that the arrest helped clarify their parental relationship and address concerns about inadequate medical care.

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We can all rest assured that he is now in the care of professionals.