Four Named Suspects in Quran Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol, Including Reciter of Surah Ad-Dhuha

Polda Metro Jaya has named four individuals as suspects in a case involving a challenge to recite Quranic verses in exchange for alcoholic beverages at a music festival in Ancol, North Jakarta. Two of the four suspects have been detained.

According to the Director of General Criminal Investigation at Polda Metro Jaya, the incident occurred during The Sounds Project music festival in the Ancol area on Sunday, 9 August 2026, at approximately 10.30 p.m. Western Indonesia Time. The case is being handled by the Sub-Directorate of State Security.

Based on the provisional investigation, the incident began when suspect RES, acting as the master of ceremonies at a liquor booth, allegedly challenged festival-goers to recite verses from the Quran in return for a bottle of alcohol. Suspects I and AK are then believed to have offered the challenge to visitors to recite Surah Al-Ikhlas and Surah Ad-Dhuha. Suspect M subsequently appeared and recited Surah Ad-Dhuha through a loudspeaker.

Footage of the event was widely circulated on social media, prompting public reports. Investigators examined the crime scene at the Eco Park Ancol area on Tuesday and collected documents and evidence related to the activity.