Suspect in Brebes Suitcase Murder Allegedly Angered by Debt Collection
Police have arrested Rokib (45), the perpetrator of a murder whose victim's body was discovered inside a suitcase in Sukareja Village, Banjarharjo District, Brebes. The suspect allegedly killed Sapri (70) after becoming enraged at being asked to repay a debt.
"Based on the information we have obtained, the suspect felt angry and emotional when asked to repay his debt. When the victim demanded repayment, he slapped the suspect," said Brebes Police Chief AKBP Lilik Ardhiansyah, as reported on Tuesday (17/2/2026).
Lilik stated that the suspect's anger was triggered, leading him to strike the victim's head with a stone.
"Because his emotions were inflamed, the suspect grabbed a nearby stone and struck the victim on the head, chest and back of the neck, causing the victim to die," Lilik explained.
As a result of his actions, the suspect has been charged under Article 479 of the Criminal Code, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years' imprisonment. "The charge is under Article 479 of the Criminal Code with a penalty of 20 years' imprisonment. We are using the new Criminal Code," he concluded.
Sukareja Village Secretary Rohandi stated that the body in the suitcase was first discovered by a relative of the house owner on Monday afternoon (16/2). The relative had entered the property to clean it.
Whilst cleaning, the relative detected a foul smell. Upon investigation, a suitcase covered with sand was found in one of the rooms of the unfinished house.
"Based on the information we have obtained, the suspect felt angry and emotional when asked to repay his debt. When the victim demanded repayment, he slapped the suspect," said Brebes Police Chief AKBP Lilik Ardhiansyah, as reported on Tuesday (17/2/2026).
Lilik stated that the suspect's anger was triggered, leading him to strike the victim's head with a stone.
"Because his emotions were inflamed, the suspect grabbed a nearby stone and struck the victim on the head, chest and back of the neck, causing the victim to die," Lilik explained.
As a result of his actions, the suspect has been charged under Article 479 of the Criminal Code, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years' imprisonment. "The charge is under Article 479 of the Criminal Code with a penalty of 20 years' imprisonment. We are using the new Criminal Code," he concluded.
Sukareja Village Secretary Rohandi stated that the body in the suitcase was first discovered by a relative of the house owner on Monday afternoon (16/2). The relative had entered the property to clean it.
Whilst cleaning, the relative detected a foul smell. Upon investigation, a suitcase covered with sand was found in one of the rooms of the unfinished house.