The Zimbabwean Checklist for the assistance in securing the return of an abducted child

In order to make an application for assistance in securing the return of a child, any person, institution or other body claiming that a child has been wrongfully removed or retained in breach of custody rights may apply to the Permanent Secretary of Justice, Legal & Parliamentary Affairs.

The application should contain the following:

• (a) Information concerning the identity of the applicant, of the child and of the person alleged to have removed or retained the child;
• (b) Where available, the date of birth of the child;
• (c) The grounds on which the applicant’s claim for return of the child is based;
• (d) All available information relating to the whereabouts of the child and the identity of the person with whom the child is presumed to be.

The application for assistance, may also be accompanied or supplemented by:

• (a) An authenticated copy of any relevant decision or agreements;
• (b) Certificate or affidavit emanating from a Central Authority; or other competent authority of the State of the child’s habitual residence, or from a qualified person, concerning the relevant law of that State; and
• (c) Any other relevant document.