Overview
- In Sukabumi, 12-year-old Nizan Shafi died on February 19 after reportedly accusing his stepmother of forcing him to drink boiling water.
- Doctors documented heat-related burns on his extremities, back, lips and nose, with inflamed heart and lungs, while police noted abrasions, second-degree burns and reddish hematomas.
- Local police say they have taken statements from 16 witnesses and are awaiting a full autopsy report as they evaluate indications of suspected physical and psychological abuse.
- The accused stepmother publicly denies wrongdoing and cites alleged preexisting illness, while the boy’s father requested an autopsy and says he will not accuse anyone without proof.
- In a separate case in Puno, Peru, an 11-year-old girl was hospitalized with second-degree burns allegedly caused by her stepfather, who reportedly fled as police and a prosecutor opened inquiries.