Tarkwa (W/R), Jan 20, GNA - Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipal Department of Social Welfare recorded a total of 127 reported cases in 2008 as against 116 in 2007. Out of the number, 82 were maintenance related, 25 defilements, eight custody and 12 paternity cases.

Mr Emmanuel Kofi Wiredu, Assistant Officer of the Department told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) here in an interview. Mr Wiredu said the most frequently reported case which is maintenance involves the welfare of children in unsteady relationships. He attributed the rise in cases last year to the lack of education.

Mr Wiredu appealed to all early childhood development centres and Non-Governmental Organizations that have not registered with the department to do so to avoid possible closure.