Education Minister Responds to Murder of Junior High School Student at Former Kampung Gajah Site

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti has responded to the murder of ZAAQ, a student at State Junior High School (SMPN) 26 Bandung, allegedly killed by his own friends, YA (16) and AP (17). Abdul Mu’ti expressed his concern over the incident.

“I wish to convey my deep concern over the violence that occurred in Bandung, which was reportedly motivated by the severing of a friendship,” said Abdul Mu’ti after a meeting with leaders of the House of Representatives (DPR) at the parliamentary complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Wednesday (18/2/2026).

“However, I have not yet examined in greater detail whether there were other issues beyond that,” he added.

Regarding allegations of inadequate supervision, Abdul Mu’ti said the case needed to be viewed comprehensively. He noted that the perpetrators had previously resided in Garut before carrying out the act in Bandung.

“If we look at it, they previously lived in Garut, then committed the act in Bandung. So this was indeed a premeditated murder. From what I can see in the news coverage, more complete details should be sought from the police,” he said.

Previously, SMPN 26 Bandung student ZAAQ was found dead with multiple stab wounds on his body. News of the student’s death came to light through a live TikTok broadcast.

ZAAQ was murdered on Monday, 9 February 2026, and his body was discovered on Friday, 13 February 2026, on the grounds of the former Kampung Gajah site in Cihideung Village, Parongpong District, West Bandung Regency.

Police subsequently apprehended YA (16) and AP (17) at their residence in Banyuresmi District, Garut Regency, in the early hours of Sunday (15/2). The pair had stopped in Tasikmalaya before returning to Garut.

“In connection with the discovery of the body at the former Kampung Gajah site, we have secured the perpetrators. There are two individuals, both still minors. We apprehended them in Garut,” said Cimahi Police Chief AKBP Niko N. Adi Putra on Monday (16/2).