A 52-year-old man is facing serious charges after allegedly impregnating his underage stepdaughter following years of repeated sexual abuse in Mamuju, West Sulawesi, Indonesia, according to local media reports.
The suspect, identified as SM, claimed his actions were influenced by “supernatural whispers” when questioned by reporters after his arrest. Speaking after a police press conference at the district police headquarters, he reportedly said he had been “possessed by the devil.”
Authorities said the abuse began in 2020 when the victim was about 12 years old and allegedly continued over a prolonged period inside their family home in Mamuju. The case has raised wider concerns about prolonged abuse within domestic environments and the challenges of early detection.
In a particularly disturbing detail, some of the alleged incidents occurred while the suspect’s wife — who is also the victim’s biological mother — was paralysed and unable to intervene.
Police said the case was uncovered after relatives noticed physical changes in the teenager, which led to further questioning. The victim later admitted she had been subjected to sexual abuse since childhood.
Mamuju District Police public relations officer, Herman Basir, said initial medical examinations indicate the victim is currently around three to four months pregnant as a result of the alleged abuse. The case underscores the need for stronger safeguarding measures for minors.
The suspect has been charged under Indonesia’s child protection laws, which carry a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison. He may also face an additional one-third increase in punishment due to his position as the victim’s guardian.
Following his arrest, the suspect reportedly requested that the matter be resolved through marriage to the victim or an amicable settlement, but authorities rejected the proposal outright, stressing that the case will proceed under the law.
