Jambi police arrest man for fatal acid attack on former wife

Police in Jambi Selatan, Jambi, have arrested a 56-year-old man, identified as SB, for a fatal acid attack against his former unofficial wife, K (44). The incident occurred on August 15, 2026, in the Paal Merah district.

According to Jambi Selatan Police Sector Chief Taroni Zebua, the suspect planned the attack by following the victim from her workplace. The victim was attacked while walking by the roadside after returning from shopping. She sustained severe burns to her face and shoulders and passed away after 10 days of intensive care at RSUD Raden Mattaher.

The motive is reported to be resentment and heartbreak after the victim ended communication and sought a divorce. The pair had been in a relationship for seven years, including one year of unofficial marriage. The suspect faces charges under Article 469 of the Criminal Code for premeditated assault resulting in death.