Woman charged with child's murder

A woman from Birmingham has been charged with the murder of a three-year-old girl, believed to be her daughter.

Iman Omar Yousef, 24, of Milverton Road, Erdington, is accused of the murder of Alia Ahmed Jama.

Police are investigating whether a hazardous substance was involved with the death of the three-year-old.

The body of Alia Ahmed Jama was discovered on Saturday afternoon at her home in Erdington, Birmingham.

Yousef appeared in Sutton Magistrates Court only to confirm her name, address, and date of birth.

Investigation

Chief Inspector Mark Payne said: "The death of this little girl in suspicious circumstances has led to an immediate and comprehensive investigation."

"Detectives, forensic experts and local officers are working together to establish how the girl died and who is responsible."

 Helen Gilfoyle, a neighbour in Erdington, said: "I used to see them [Iman Yousef and Alia Jama] going up the road most days and they seemed like a normal mother and daughter.

"We're very sad to hear something terrible has happened to such a lovely little thing."

Yousef has been remanded in custody until Friday, where she will appearbefore Birmingham Crown Court.