EAST LONDON PARENTS ON TRIAL FOR BABY'S FATAL SHAKING
Kaylani Kalanzi, a three-month-old girl, tragically died during a toxic relationship between her parents despite being under social services protection.She was taken to hospital on 8 July 2024 after suffering severe injuries, including being violently shaken, which resulted in devastating brain damage, alongside a broken leg and ribs.
She passed away 15 days after her hospital admission.
Her parents, Herbert Kalanzi, aged 35, and Nazli Merthoca, aged 24, both from East Ham in London, are facing trial at the Old Bailey on charges of murder and causing or permitting her death.
They deny involvement in her death.
Prosecutor Zoe Johnson KC described their partnership as 'mutually abusive' and noted that Ms.
Merthoca was involved with drugs.
The court was informed that their relationship degenerated into chaos, with their daughter caught in the middle, and both parents aware of the dangers she faced.
In the weeks prior to her death, Kaylani had an eye injury; initially, Ms.
Merthoca blamed her partner, but subsequently altered her account when questioned by medical staff.
The prosecution emphasized that their neglect contributed to her death, stating that 'on 8 July 2024, the constant threat to Kaylani materialized into a fatal event.' The case is ongoing, with the court examining who was responsible for the injuries, as both parents contest their involvement.
The issue of liability remains unresolved at this stage.
