Qatar launches probe after child found dead on school bus

Authorities in Qatar have launched an investigation into the death of a four-year-old girl who was found dead on a school bus, sending shockwaves across the country.

The ministry of education said it had launched an investigation into the incident in which the child, named by local media as Minsa Maryam, was found by school staff hours after her peers had vacated the school bus and appeared to unknowingly leave her behind.

"The Ministry, as well as the respective authorities will take the necessary measures as well as the maximum punishment against the aggressors with regards to regulations and according to the results of the ongoing investigation," the statement said.

"The ministry also affirms its keenness to adhere to the highest quality of security and safety standards for its students, and will not tolerate any shortcomings in this regard. It extends its sincerest condolences to the family of the deceased student."

On Monday, Qatar Education Minister Buthaina Al-Nuaimi met with the parents of the child.

Local media said the four-year-old, who celebrated her birthday on the same day she was found on the bus, was left in the locked vehicle during the midday heat in Qatar's southern Al-Wakrah city, where temperatures reach above 40 degrees celsius.