KPAI Urges Authorities to Investigate Allegations of Child Prostitution in Lokasari, West Jakarta
The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has responded to reports that the Lokasari area in Tamansari, West Jakarta, has become the focus of allegations of child prostitution. KPAI has called on police to act swiftly in investigating the alleged crime.
“Sexual exploitation of children is an extraordinary crime and a serious violation of children’s rights that must be addressed firmly and without compromise. KPAI urges law enforcement authorities to move quickly, transparently and comprehensively in investigating the networks involved, including possible parties benefiting economically from child exploitation,” said KPAI chair Aris Adi Leksono to journalists on Tuesday (26 May 2026).
“The investigation must not stop at street-level perpetrators, but must also target key organisers, intermediary networks and parties enabling the practice to continue,” he added.
Aris stressed that children allegedly involved in prostitution must be positioned as victims, not offenders. According to him, the state has an obligation to ensure protection, psychological counselling, social rehabilitation, healthcare services and security measures to protect the child’s identity from repeated trauma and social stigma.
“Beyond law enforcement, this case demonstrates the need for stronger oversight of areas vulnerable to child exploitation, including digital monitoring, as indications suggest transactions and promotion often occur through social media and online platforms,” he said.
He stated that local governments, authorities and families must establish systems for early detection and rapid reporting to prevent children from becoming victims of human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation.
“KPAI also urges the public not to share videos, photos or narratives that could expose the identity of child victims. The primary focus must be on the rescue and protection of children, not on viral sensationalism on social media,” he said.
Allegations of Child Prostitution in Lokasari
As reported, the Lokasari area in Tamansari, West Jakarta, went viral with allegations of child prostitution involving minors. Police have launched an investigation.
The information went viral on social media as seen on detikcom on Monday (25 May). In the viral post, a video was reportedly recorded by a Japanese national.
The videographer appeared to be approached by several people allegedly offering prostitution services. In the circulating video, they could be heard shouting and stating “seventeen” and “perawan” (virgin) to the videographer.
When contacted separately, Tamansari Police Precinct Chief Kompol Bobby M. Zulfikar said his team had already begun investigations. Police have also checked the Lokasari location identified in the viral video.
“We received reports about this and checked the location, which relates to a new video. We are in the process of deepening our investigation,” said Bobby when contacted on Monday (25 May).