Habib Bahar bin Smith Named Suspect in Alleged Assault of Banser Member
JAKARTA – Controversial cleric Habib Bahar bin Smith has been officially named a suspect by the Tangerang City Metro Police in connection with an alleged assault against a member of the Barisan Ansor Serbaguna (Banser), the youth wing of Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia’s largest Islamic institution.
According to authorities, the incident occurred on September 21, 2025, during an event in the Cipondoh sub-district of tangerang City. AKBP Awaludin Kanur, Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit for the Tangerang City Metro Police, stated that the Banser member had attended the event to listen to a lecture delivered by Bahar bin Smith.
Initial reports indicate that the victim attempted to approach Bahar bin smith for a handshake,but was intercepted by a group of individuals who prevented the interaction.The victim was subsequently escorted to a separate room where he allegedly endured physical violence.
The police investigation is ongoing, and Habib Bahar bin smith has been summoned for questioning, scheduled for February 4, 2026.Further details regarding the charges and potential motives are expected to be revealed following the interrogation. This case has garnered important attention due to Bahar bin Smith’s prominent public profile and past legal controversies.
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