Michigan Department of Health: We are investigating the abuse of Afghan immigrant children

Since the Taliban came to power, 19 unaccompanied teenagers have fled Afghanistan and taken refuge in Michigan in recent months.

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services spokesman Bob Vuitton said he was investigating allegations of child abuse in the state.

“The ministry is taking responsibility for protecting all children from serious abuse and neglect and has contacted the relevant federal authorities to investigate,” Vuitton said.

Proplica reported on the investigation for the first time last month, saying there were reports of child abuse at centres in Michigan run or maintained by the nonprofit Samaritas and the Commonwealth Star.

Some of these charges include harassment of Afghan boys by staff, including beating a boy during prayers and sexual harassment of minors.