Fake friendliness traps sexual predator in online transportation
Jakarta (ANTARA) - On a Saturday afternoon in mid-March, an ordinary journey turned into an unpleasant experience for SKD (20). Light conversation intended to break the ice, as is common for ride-hailing drivers with passengers, instead led to actions that made her uncomfortable.
The driver then invited SKD on a date and asked sensitive questions touching on prostitution services. SKD, who had booked an online taxi from Gambir Station to a hotel in central Jakarta, was naturally shocked.
The journey, which initially felt safe, gradually became tense, filled with fear and suspicion. The situation worsened when the driver, initialled WAH (39), unapologetically groped and squeezed SKD’s thigh.
Not only that, the driver also directed the vehicle away from the original destination towards a secluded location. The vehicle’s windows, covered with 80 per cent tint film, made the interior appear dark from outside, heightening the anxiety during the trip.
SKD’s fear intensified when WAH moved to the back seat and attempted to forcibly pin down the victim’s body.
SKD resisted. While trying to record WAH’s vile actions, she also attempted to exit the car. Realising he was being recorded, WAH panicked. He tried to seize the victim’s phone and committed various acts of violence, including strangling the victim.
SKD managed to escape, albeit in a confused state. She then posted the traumatic experience on social media. The video uploaded by the victim went viral and eventually reached the police.
Director of the Criminal Investigation Unit for Women and Children Services (PPA) and Human Trafficking Eradication (PPO) of Metro Jaya Police, Senior Commissioner Pol Rita Wulandari Wibowo, stated that her team facilitated the victim to meet with the support team from the Jakarta Regional Technical Implementation Unit for Women and Children Protection (UPT PPA).
The victim was subsequently placed in a temporary shelter while receiving counselling services to support her protection, recovery, and fulfilment of her rights.
The case experienced by SKD adds to the list of sexual violence victims in public spaces. Data from the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) records eight cases of violence against women in ride-hailing transportation throughout 2025, most of which are sexual violence. Meanwhile, WAH was arrested in Depok on 1 April. According to the police, the day before the incident, he is suspected of consuming methamphetamine, which could have influenced the perpetrator’s psychological condition, self-control, and boldness in committing unlawful acts.