A case report of extrafamilial child homicide

Child abuse often occurs in Indonesia. In some extreme cases, mild or severe abuse might be accompanied by rape and homicide. Perpetrators of this violence can be anyone, including families, teachers, even parents. In this case report, we present the case of a child found in a muddy trench. On external examination, we found blisters on the arms and head, vulva without laceration in the hymen. Autopsy findings showed mud-filled pulmonary bronchi, esophagus, and stomach. The cause of death is determined asphyxia due to the closure of the airway by mud. Based on the crime scene examination and witness statements, the manner of death was upheld as a murder. Homicide is a criminal offense regulated in articles 338, 339, and 340 of the Indonesian Criminal Code. Whereas the homicide of children is held explicitly in the Child Protection Act.