A 45-year-old man in Indonesia has been accused of killing his 60-year-old neighbor after growing increasingly annoyed by the latter’s persistent inquiries about his unmarried status. The incident occurred in South Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra, on July 29.
The victim, Asgim Irianto, a retired civil servant, was attacked by his neighbor, Parlindungan Siregar, according to Assistant Police Commissioner Maria Marpaung. Reports indicate that Parlindungan arrived at Mr. Asgim’s home around 8pm, wielding a piece of wood, and began the assault without any warning.
Mr. Asgim attempted to flee but was pursued and struck on the head. After he fell, Parlindungan allegedly continued to beat him until local residents intervened. Despite their efforts to rush him to the hospital, Mr. Asgim succumbed to his injuries before arrival.
Police arrested Parlindungan within an hour of the attack. During questioning, Parlindungan admitted he had been determined to kill Mr. Asgim due to his constant, jesting inquiries about why he was not married at 45. Previous arguments between the two over their chickens wandering into each other’s coops may have also contributed to the tension.
The incident has shocked the local community and highlighted the potentially deadly consequences of persistent and invasive personal questions.