Trauma Behind the Heartbreaking Cries of a Child of Suspected Chicken Thief in Bali

A tragic incident in Tabanan, Bali, where a man suspected of stealing chickens was beaten to death by a mob, has deeply shocked the local community and highlighted the severe impact on his surviving child. A video that went viral on social media shows the man's young daughter crying hysterically as her father's body was brought home, a sight that has deeply moved many. The incident occurred in Tabanan Regency. The man, identified by the initials KD, was allegedly attacked by a mob in the early hours of Friday, July 24, 2026, after being accused of stealing fighting chickens. His body was brought to his home in Sidatapa Village, Buleleng Regency, and the heartbreaking cries of his daughter were captured in a video that has been widely shared. "Last night, I was the one who picked up the body. When I arrived at the house and saw the child crying inconsolably, I was truly sad," said I Made Sutama, the Head of Sidatapa Village, as quoted by detikBali. Following this tragedy, Tabanan Police have arrested five individuals, with the initials MJ, WS, KB, ML, and ND, and are continuing their investigation. Dr. Lahargo Kembaren, a psychiatry specialist, stated that a child facing the tragic death of their father, especially in a highly emotional atmosphere, is an experience that can potentially lead to traumatic events. "In the case being reported, the child was seen crying hysterically when the father's body arrived at the funeral home, while the incident of the father's death due to alleged mob violence is still a public concern and is being investigated by authorities," said Dr. Lahargo when contacted by detikcom. From a psychological perspective, according to Dr. Lahargo, the child may experience several forms of trauma. This incident, occurring in a popular tourist destination like Bali, also raises questions about vigilante justice practices and potential underlying poverty, underscoring social issues that require attention. The need for due legal process and psychological support for victims, especially the child, is paramount.