Another Suspect in Sampang Gang Rape Arrested, 14 Still at Large

The Sampang Police have arrested a new suspect in the case of alleged sexual violence against a 15-year-old girl in Sampang Regency, Madura. The suspect, identified by the initial W (17), was apprehended in the Alun-Alun Sampang area on Sunday evening (12/7).

With this arrest, the total number of suspects in custody has risen to 13 out of the 27 individuals believed to have been involved in the gang rape. Fourteen other suspects remain at large and are being pursued by law enforcement.

Sampang Police Chief AKBP Hartono stated that W’s arrest was the result of an investigation development carried out by a joint team. “Last night we secured another suspect. So currently, 13 people have been arrested,” Hartono said on Monday (13/7).

Hartono explained that the 17-year-old suspect was caught in the Alun-Alun Sampang area. He confirmed that his team is still chasing the 14 other suspects whose identities have been obtained by investigators. He assured that the case is a priority for the Sampang Police due to widespread public attention.

“There are still 14 people we are pursuing. This case has drawn public attention, so we are prioritising its handling. We have formed a special team involving the Criminal Investigation Unit, Intelligence, and other functions to maximise the search process for the suspects,” he said. “The handling of this case is also backed by the East Java Regional Police.”

The Sampang Police in Madura, East Java, uncovered the case of alleged rape and sexual abuse of a 15-year-old girl, reportedly perpetrated by 27 individuals. Police Chief AKBP Hartono revealed that the incidents occurred between February and May 2026 in three different locations: Panggung Village in Sampang District, Astapah Village in Omben District, and Madupat Village in Camplong District.

Prior to arresting W (17), police had already detained 12 of the 27 suspected individuals: AR (17), MH (17), MA (15), AP (15), D (16), MR (17), R (42), MHA (13), MFS (13), AS (14), F (25), and AP (15). The suspects are charged under Article 473 paragraph (2) letter b of the Criminal Code in conjunction with Law Number 1 of 2026 concerning Criminal Adjustments, in conjunction with Article 20 letter c of the Criminal Code, in conjunction with Law Number 11 of 2012 concerning the Juvenile Criminal Justice System, and face a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison.