Toddler killed by his own father

JAKARTA (JP): A two and a half year old toddler died in Tegal, Central Java, Saturday allegedly at the hands of his depressed father, Antara reported yesterday.

Drajat was found by his mother with severe stab wounds to his abdomen and was rushed to Slawi Hospital, but could not be saved. His father, Rob, 40, a resident of Balapulang village, is now in police custody.

Pekalongan Police Chief Col. Sudibyo expressed sadness over the toddler's death and said his office would thoroughly investigate the case.

According to his mother, Ratni, Drajat was asleep at the time. She was cooking when she heard Drajat's cry and then complete silence.

Suspicious, Ratni went to check on Drajat and found him lying in his own blood while Rob was standing over him, holding a blood-smeared machete. He appeared to be stunned.

Ratni's screams attracted neighbors who took the unresisting Rob to the police.

A police officer said he suspected Rob was suffering from depression, given the fact he did not react when he was arrested.

Ratni conceded that Rob, who was jobless, had been withdrawn and kept to himself lately. (swe)