11 Babies Rescued from Unlicensed Shelter in Pakem, Yogyakarta, Suspected to Be from Illicit Relationships

Eleven babies were secured from a house in Dusun Wonokerso, Hargobinangun Village, Pakem Sub-district, Sleman Regency, on Friday (8/5/2026). The house is suspected to be a baby shelter run by a midwife from Gamping Sub-district.

The case came to light following reports from residents suspicious of activities at the permanent house owned by the midwife’s parents. Although the house was known to be unoccupied, residents observed unusual activities due to the presence of several babies inside.

After receiving the report, village officials, along with Social Affairs Office (Dinsos) personnel, the Pakem Sub-district head, and the Pakem Police Sector chief, visited the location for inspection. The examination revealed 11 babies inside the house.

“The police are handling this jointly with government apparatus from the sub-district and village levels, the Dinsos Child Welfare Unit (BRSPA), and the Education Office (Dindik,” said the Police Public Relations Sub-Section Head of Sleman Police Resort, Iptu Argo Anggoro, on Sunday (10/5/2026).

According to Hargobinangun Village Head Amin Sarjito, the baby shelter is believed to have been operating for about the last week. The activity lacks official permits. The midwife suspected of managing the shelter is known to frequently accommodate toddlers. It is possible that, due to the full capacity at her clinic in Gamping, the toddlers were brought to her parents’ house in Hargobinangun.

When officials entered the house, several babies were found sleeping. A team from the community health centre then conducted health checks on all the babies. The results indicated that eight babies were in good health, while the other three showed indications of health problems.

Details regarding the parents of the babies remain unknown. The case is currently being handled by the Sleman Police Resort.

“The current priority is the safety and health of these children. We continue to coordinate with relevant agencies for further handling,” said Argo.

The police also urged the public to await the results of the official investigation to ensure the handling process is professional and in accordance with applicable law. “We ask for your prayers so that we can handle this appropriately, thoroughly, professionally, and upholding justice,” he stated.