Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi emphasized the need for synergy among all parties in handling a child sexual violence case that led to the victim's murder in Banyuwangi, East Java.
"We hope the entire process can run smoothly to reveal the truth and uphold justice. The child's best interests remain the main principle in this case," the minister noted in a statement from her office on Friday.
Her office is closely monitoring this case due to the involvement of children as both the victim and alleged perpetrator, which presents complex circumstances and technical challenges in the investigation.
Fauzi emphasized the need to offer comprehensive support to the victim, the victim's family, and the alleged perpetrator in terms of psychological, social, and legal assistance.
The minister also underscored the importance of a legal process that incorporates inputs from experts and considers the unique circumstances of the perpetrator as a minor with disabilities.
In this case, the police are still investigating whether the alleged perpetrator acted independently or with assistance from others.
The alleged perpetrator is believed to have been exposed to pornographic content and is also suspected of having physical disabilities or limitations.
Fauzi earlier visited the victim's house to offer support and encouragement to the family. During the visit, the minister also conveyed her heartfelt condolences.
"We want to ensure that the victim's family did not only receive legal assistance but also psychological support and social support," she remarked.
The victim, identified by the initials DCN, 7, was a first grader at the Islamic school and was found dead in a plantation area near her residence in Kalibarumanis Village, Kalibaru Sub-district, Banyuwangi, on November 13, 2024, with bruises on the back of her head.
DCN is suspected to be a victim of sexual violence and murder.
