Commission III Holds Hearing on Death of Boy Allegedly Beaten by Stepmother

Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives held a hearing with police officials and the family of Nizam Sapei (12), a child who died following alleged abuse by his stepmother in Sukabumi, West Java.

The hearing was attended by Lisnawati, Nizam’s biological mother, and her legal representative, Krisna Murti. Also present were the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) and the Witness and Victim Protection Institute (LPSK).

“The public question being raised to Commission III is: how long was the violence and torture allegedly suffered by the deceased before his death?” asked Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman in opening remarks.

Based on information received by Commission III, Habib stated that the torture was allegedly committed not only by the stepmother but also by other parties.

He disclosed that he had also received information suggesting Nizam was allegedly neglected by his close family members whilst being subjected to abuse.

“It is worth questioning why the people around him remained silent when the deceased was in serious condition, lying on thin bedding on the floor,” he said.

According to police investigation findings, the abuse by the stepmother allegedly lasted for several years.

The Criminal Investigation Unit (Satreskrim) of Sukabumi Police Department has designated the stepmother, TR, as a suspect on suspicion of physical and psychological violence resulting in her stepson’s death.

Sukabumi Police Chief AKBP Samian confirmed the suspect designation was made after investigators examined the circumstances surrounding Nizam’s death.

“Regarding the case of the child’s death resulting from violence at Sukabumi Police Department, the Criminal Investigation Unit has designated a suspect, namely Ms. TR, the stepmother. Ms. TR has been designated as a suspect on suspicion of violence, both physical and psychological,” Samian said at Sukabumi Police Headquarters on Wednesday (25 February).