China has officially announced the deployment of a “working group” to aid in the search for a man accused of maliciously pouring scalding hot coffee on a baby in an unprovoked assault that deeply shook the nation.

Ambassador Xiao Qian of China to Australia shared the news in Canberra on January 29, expressing the readiness of officials to assist in investigating the 2024 incident. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between both countries to ascertain the details of the attack and work together towards a resolution.

The decision to dispatch the working group follows a setback in the international manhunt as the prime suspect fled to China shortly before being identified by authorities. The suspect, a 33-year-old Chinese national, allegedly targeted the nine-month-old baby named Luka during a picnic, causing severe burns to the infant’s chest, neck, and face.

Despite extensive efforts by Queensland Police to locate the perpetrator, the suspect managed to escape the country, thwarting the ongoing investigation due to the absence of an extradition treaty between Australia and China. However, both Queensland Police Service and Australian Federal Police welcomed the upcoming visit by the Chinese delegation, reaffirming their commitment to seeking justice for baby Luka.

The infant has undergone multiple surgeries and endured months of pain following the horrifying assault, which prompted a nationwide outcry for accountability and swift action against the perpetrator.