Drunk Man Suspected of Attempted Child Molestation in Tangerang Beaten by Crowd

A 23-year-old man identified as A, also known as R, was arrested by police after allegedly attempting to sexually assault a nine-year-old child in Setu District, South Tangerang. The suspect was severely beaten by a crowd before being detained.

Cisauk Police Chief AKP Dhady Arsya stated when contacted on Monday (25 May 2026): “Upon arriving at the crime scene, a man under the influence of alcohol suspected of theft and attempted molestation of a child had already been apprehended by residents.”

Dhady explained the incident was reported at 16:00 WIB on Sunday (24 May). According to investigations, the suspect had consumed alcohol with his sibling earlier that morning and later played in the rain with children, inviting them to play hide-and-seek.

“At 14:00 WIB, A alias R left his rented room to play in the rain and fell into a drainage canal, which carried him to the scene. Upon arrival, he saw children playing and invited them to join hide-and-seek,” he said.

During the game, the suspect allegedly attempted molestation by touching the victim’s trousers. The child screamed, drawing the attention of nearby residents.

“A immediately tried to flee but was caught by locals. Before being apprehended, he entered a resident’s house to take a phone but was chased back,” Dhady added.

Officers arrived at the scene and secured the suspect, who was already injured from the mob attack. Both the suspect and evidence were taken to Cisauk Police Station.

“When Cisauk Police arrived, A alias R had already been beaten by the crowd, and officers promptly transported the suspect to the station. After being detained, he was taken to Keranggan Health Centre for treatment due to injuries sustained from the mob,” he concluded.