DIY Police Probe Alleged Worship Disruption in Bantul, Case May Advance to Formal Investigation
DIY Police has officially launched an investigation into alleged disruptions to worship services in Bantul Regency last Sunday. The legal action aims to uphold the rule of law and maintain social harmony.
Police Public Relations Chief Commissioner Ihsan confirmed the case is registered under Police Report No. LP/A/6/V/2026/SPKT.DITRESKRIMUM/POLDA DIY dated 25 May 2026, with investigators working intensively on-site.
Commissioner Ihsan stated the police’s primary focus is gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to establish a complete and transparent timeline of events.
“The case remains in the preliminary inquiry stage. The team is collecting evidence and witness statements to clarify the incident,” Ihsan said in a statement on Wednesday (27 May).
He added that if sufficient preliminary evidence is found during the case review, the status will escalate to formal investigation, and the DIY Police will handle the matter professionally until resolution.
Despite previous tensions, the police confirmed the situation at the scene is now calm and under control, urging the public not to be provoked by social media rumours.
“We urge the public to remain calm, avoid being provoked by divisive narratives on social media, and leave the resolution of this matter to law enforcement and local authorities,” he stressed.
Separately, Bantul Regent Abdul Halim Muslih disclosed the latest agreement regarding the Sharon Rose Church (GMS) worship activities. For the time being, GMS congregation services in Bantul have been halted and relocated elsewhere.
“It was agreed yesterday that the building will temporarily not be used for worship. Congregants will now hold services at Pakuwon Mall in Yogyakarta,” Halim said during a meeting at Manunggal Grand Mosque in Bantul.
Halim also confirmed the Bantul Regional Government will not provide an alternative place of worship within Bantul for the congregation, in line with previous agreements.