Witness Trapping in False Testimony Cases

Criminal Law and Qanun Perspectives

Abstract

This study examines witness trapping in false testimony cases from criminal law and Qanun Jinayat perspectives. Witness trapping, the manipulation of witnesses to provide fabricated testimony, undermines judicial integrity and risks miscarriages of justice. While Indonesia's Criminal Code (KUHP) and witness protection laws address false testimony, enforcement gaps persist. In Aceh, Qanun Jinayat incorporates Islamic legal principles, treating false testimony (syahadah al-zur) as both a crime and sin. The research compares these frameworks, analyzing their preventive mechanisms and sanctions. Findings suggest Qanun's religious-legal hybrid approach offers unique deterrence through moral accountability, complementing conventional legal sanctions. The study recommends strengthening legal protections while integrating ethical-religious education to combat witness trapping more effectively.