A 15-year-old boy in Indonesia allegedly died after being beaten by his father for defending his mother during an argument over money intended for his school fees.
The incident occurred in Cicalengka, Bandung, on Monday, when the teenager, identified only as RR, reportedly confronted his father over allegations that he wanted to use the money for online gambling.
Bandung Police chief Senior Commissioner Tri Suhartanto said the 37-year-old suspect, identified as DR, had asked his wife for 500,000 rupiah (about RM112.80).
The money had been set aside to pay their son’s school admission fees, but the suspect allegedly intended to use it for online gambling.
An argument broke out between the couple, prompting RR to step in and defend his mother.
“ The victim tried to help his mother during the argument with his father. However, this angered the suspect, who then assaulted his son,” Tri said at a press conference on Friday.
Police said the teenager allegedly suffered multiple injuries after being choked, punched and kicked.
A post-mortem examination found bleeding at the back of the boy’s head caused by blunt-force trauma. The injury was believed to have led to his death.
Following a report by the victim’s mother, police launched an investigation and arrested DR, naming him as a suspect in a child abuse case resulting in death.
The suspect faces charges under Indonesia’s child protection laws and Criminal Code provisions. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison.
