Police Uncover Criminal Elements in Case of Child Found Dead with Burns Allegedly Abused by Stepmother
BANDUNG — The Criminal Investigation Unit of Sukabumi Police has revealed the presence of criminal elements in the case of N (aged 13), a teenager who died with burn injuries allegedly sustained from abuse by a stepmother in Jampang Kulon, Sukabumi Regency.
Sukabumi Police Chief AKBP Samian stated that his team has been conducting a marathon investigation and has elevated the case status to a formal criminal inquiry. This follows the discovery of several pieces of evidence indicating criminal elements in the case.
“We have elevated the matter to the investigation level, as we have found several pieces of evidence that we can confidently say indicate the presence of criminal elements,” he said in an official statement quoted on Monday (23/2/2026).
He said the investigation was being conducted with focus and professionalism. His team is employing scientific crime investigation methods. A total of 16 witnesses have been examined thus far.
“We are examining everything thoroughly and are awaiting additional evidence,” he said.
Previously, Sukabumi Police Criminal Investigation Unit Chief AKP Hartono stated that various types of injuries were found across the victim’s entire body, from the face to the feet. Additionally, second-degree (2A) burns were discovered on several parts of the body, along with reddish-purple bruising indicative of blunt force trauma.
“The post-mortem examination results show abrasions on several parts of the face, neck, and limbs,” he said.
He noted that a number of medical witnesses, including doctors from the local community health centre and Jampang Kulon Regional General Hospital, had provided testimony regarding the victim’s initial condition when first brought in for treatment.
The authorities are also investigating the involvement of the victim’s stepmother, who currently holds the status of a reported suspect. Hartono noted that despite a viral video containing the victim’s account before death, police are still awaiting definitive laboratory results.
“Regarding the precise cause of death, we are still awaiting results from the Anatomical Pathology and Forensic Toxicology laboratories on samples of the victim’s internal organs,” he said.