Yogyakarta Police Name 13 Suspects in Child Abuse Case at Daycare Center Yogyakarta police have named 13 suspects in connection with an alleged child abuse case at a daycare facility in the city, following the circulation of a video online that prompted a broader investigation. The suspects include the head of the foundation that operated the Little Aresha daycare center, the daycare manager, and 11 caregivers, according to Yogyakarta Police Chief Commissioner Eva Guna Pandia. All 13 individuals were detained shortly after being named. The investigation began after a video allegedly showing abuse at the facility circulated online. Authorities subsequently identified 30 individuals for questioning, leading to the naming of the 13 suspects. The daycare center, located on Jalan Pakel in the Umbulharjo District, has been shut down and sealed by police. Based on preliminary findings, police reported that 53 children were identified as victims of abuse at the center. All verified victims are under the age of two. Prior to its closure, the facility was caring for 103 children. Officers have stated that in several cases, children were allegedly tied up while sleeping. The head of the Yogyakarta Metro Police Criminal Investigation Unit, Commissioner Riski Adrian, described the conditions as inhumane and noted that poor living conditions contributed to serious health issues among the children, including pneumonia. The suspects are charged under Articles 76A to 76C in conjunction with Articles 77 to 80 of Indonesia’s Child Protection Law (Number 35 of 2014) for discriminatory behavior and leaving children in situations of mistreatment or neglect. Local officials, including Yogyakarta Mayor Haasto Wardoyo, confirmed that the daycare was operating without proper permits. Despite being registered as a foundation, the lack of an operational permit prevented government oversight of standards related to caregiving, food preparation, and facility safety. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation remains active and that the number of suspects could increase as more evidence is gathered. Police and government officials have urged the public to report any signs of child abuse and to exercise caution when selecting childcare providers.
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