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Story By: Joseph Golder, Sub-Editor: Joe Golder, Agency: Newsflash

This footage allegedly shows a mother prodding one of her young children with a large kitchen knife as the terrified tot wails in fear.

The incident took place in Teresina, the largest city in the state of Piaui, in north-eastern Brazil.

The footage was shared on social media and eventually reported to the local authorities who took action yesterday (Wednesday 21st July).

The woman, who has not been named, allegedly filmed herself abusing the children so that she could show it to her ex-partner.

Itapua Cavalcante, from the local social services, said that the woman was taken to the police station, but she was not arrested after explaining and apologising, and she was released.

The spokesperson explained: “She would have done it because of her ex-partner, she wanted him to return to the relationship. That was the motivation, according to her, namely the disagreements she had with her ex-partner and to hurt him, that was why she made that video.”

He also said: “The children live with their maternal grandparents. She lives next door. Tomorrow we will meet . . . . . to decide what measures we will ask the judge to take.”

The criminal investigation is also ongoing. It is currently unclear what penalties the woman faces when the police report is handed to prosecutors.