Indonesia arrests men for child sexual abuse in Merauke and Banyuwangi

Indonesian police have arrested two men on charges of sexually assaulting children in separate cases in the provinces of Papua and East Java. In Merauke, a 44‑year‑old suspect identified only as “FB” was detained after investigators said he repeatedly abused a 14‑year‑old girl at three locations – a village, an inn and a chocolate‑farm circuit – using promises to lure the victim. The investigation was led by AKP Lukyta Kustiana Putra of the Merauke police criminal unit.

In Banyuwangi, a 60‑year‑old man identified as “RS” was taken into custody after a four‑year‑old victim reported repeated sexual abuse of four toddlers in his home. Local police chief Sujarwadi Putra said the suspect was secured to prevent mob retaliation and the case was transferred to the Banyuwangi police special unit for youth and women crimes. Authorities have urged the public to allow the legal process to proceed without vigilante action.