Fugitive in Muaro Jambi Disabled Student Abuse Case Arrested in Jember

The escape of TAR (57), the alleged perpetrator of sexual abuse against N (16), a student at a State Special Needs School (SLB) in Muaro Jambi Regency, has finally come to an end. After being on the run for approximately one month, TAR was successfully apprehended by the police in the Jember area, East Java, on Sunday (28/6/2026).

The Muara Jambi Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Heri Supriawan, confirmed the successful arrest. Heri, who is currently in a transition period of duties as the Deputy Director of Traffic for the Jambi Regional Police, stated that the suspect is currently still in East Java.

“He has just been caught. His position is still in Jember, East Java. Once he arrives in Jambi, we will issue an official release,” Heri Supriawan told Media Indonesia on Sunday night (28/6). The position of Muara Jambi Police Chief is scheduled to be handed over to Assistant Commissioner Bayu Noormansyah.

TAR is known to have fled in late May 2026, shortly after the victim’s family reported his heinous actions to the authorities on 23 May. This case first came to light after a student, who was a friend of the victim, reported it to a teacher at the Muara Jambi State Special Needs School.

The victim’s mother, SM, initially doubted the report as she knew TAR to be a well-behaved individual. However, that doubt vanished after the victim confessed to the immoral acts she had experienced. Based on the victim’s confession, TAR is alleged to have committed the abuse seven times.

The impact of the incident has been profound for the victim. SM revealed that her child has suffered severe trauma and has refused to return to the Muara Jambi State Special Needs School since 21 May 2026.

This case of sexual abuse against a minor with a disability caused a sensation in the Jambi community and triggered strong reactions from various parties. The Social Services Department and the Jambi Regional Office of Human Rights (HAM) have also provided special attention.

These institutions have urged law enforcement officials to investigate this case thoroughly in accordance with applicable legal provisions, given the victim’s vulnerability as a person with a disability. As of now, the police are still coordinating to bring the suspect, TAR, back to Jambi to undergo further legal proceedings.