Toddler in Surabaya Allegedly Tortured by Uncle and Aunt

A four-year-old girl identified by the initial K, residing in a boarding house on Jalan Bangkingan, Lakarsantri District, Surabaya, is suspected of being the victim of abuse by adults.

The acts of violence were allegedly committed by the victim’s uncle, Ufa Fahrul Agusti (30), and her aunt, Sellyna Adika Wahyuni (26).

The case came to light on Monday (9 February) after local residents heard the victim’s screams from inside the boarding room. Neighbours then rescued the young child and reported the case to police.

The Head of the Women and Children Protection Unit at Surabaya Metropolitan Police, Senior Commissioner Melatisari, said the victim had been entrusted to the two suspects due to her family’s broken household.

“Her father is divorced and works in Gresik. Yes, the child was entrusted to her uncle and aunt,” said Senior Commissioner Melatisari when contacted for confirmation on Monday (16 February).

Following the incident, initial medical examinations revealed physical injuries on the victim’s body, suspected to have been caused by blunt force or bare-handed blows.

“The victim has bruising on her body and a bleeding chin. It appears the violence was inflicted with bare hands, but the investigation is still ongoing,” she said.

Upon receiving the report, police detained the married couple and designated them as suspects. Based on initial statements, the suspects claimed they had acted out of frustration with the victim’s behaviour.

“The motive is still being investigated. For now, the suspects claim the child was naughty and difficult to control. They have been charged under domestic violence and child protection provisions,” she said.

Both suspects are now being held at the Surabaya Metropolitan Police detention facility and have been charged under Law No. 35 of 2014 on Child Protection. Meanwhile, the young girl has been evacuated to receive further protection.

“The investigation is still ongoing. The suspects have been detained and formally designated. The victim is currently staying with her grandmother,” she said.