LPSK: Victims and Witnesses in Pati Ponpes Abuse Case Allegedly Intimidated

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has received information that several victims and witnesses related to the case of indecent assault and rape of female students by the founder of the Ndholo Kusumo Islamic Boarding School in Pati, Central Java, are allegedly experiencing intimidation up to threats of counter-legal action. LPSK conducted direct outreach in Pati on 6-7 May, coordinating with the Pati Police Resort, the Regional Technical Implementation Unit for Women’s and Children’s Protection (UPTD PPA) of Pati Regency, the Pati Regency Ministry of Religious Affairs, as well as the Pati Regency Branch Management of Nahdlatul Ulama (PCNU) and its autonomous bodies. “LPSK also found challenges in the process of uncovering this case. Several victims and witnesses are allegedly experiencing intimidation, threats of counter-claims, and invitations to settle from the suspect’s side. It is recorded that some witnesses and or victims have withdrawn from continuing the legal process,” said LPSK Deputy Chairman Wawan Fahrudin in a press statement quoted on Sunday (12 May). In addition, Wawan said LPSK also obtained information regarding allegations of attempts to provide money to the victims’ companions to stop the legal process. “This situation is assessed as potentially hindering the judicial process and affecting the courage of victims and witnesses to provide testimony,” he added. Wawan stated that his agency has taken proactive steps in handling this case by conducting cross-institutional coordination and direct outreach to victims and witnesses in Pati Regency. He also emphasised that LPSK is ready to provide protection to witnesses and victims to encourage them to give testimony in the legal process, including protection for security, identity confidentiality, legal assistance, and psychological support. “LPSK has proactively intervened in this Sexual Violence Crime (TPKS) case in Pati. We are ready to provide protection to witnesses and/or victims to encourage them to come forward and reveal the case. LPSK has also coordinated with relevant parties in processing applications to LPSK, including facilitating restitution,” he explained. The suspect in this case is AS (51), the founder of the Ndholo Kusumo Islamic Boarding School. Based on information gathered by LPSK, the suspect allegedly used influence, power relations, and religious interpretations to manipulate perceptions and build compliance among the victims. Several victims admitted to being contacted via WhatsApp messages at night until early morning to accompany the suspect or give him massages. Victims who refused were threatened with expulsion from the boarding school and even experienced physical violence. The alleged sexual violence occurred in several locations within the boarding school environment. Based on statements from legal counsel, the number of victims is estimated to reach 30 to 50 female students, most of whom are minors and SMP students. However, to date, only some victims have provided official statements to law enforcement. “On that basis, LPSK will conduct further verification and deepening through outreach to victims and witnesses as well as coordination with relevant parties,” said Wawan. AS was designated as a suspect on 28 April 2024, and detained on 7 May 2024. The suspect is charged with Article 76E in conjunction with Article 82 of Law No. 17 of 2016 on Child Protection, Article 6 letter c in conjunction with Article 15 paragraph (1) letter e of Law No. 12 of 2022 on Sexual Violence Crimes, and Article 418 paragraphs (1) and (2) of the Criminal Code. Based on coordination with the Pati Regency Ministry of Religious Affairs, Wawan clearly stated that information was obtained that the boarding school’s operational permit was revoked on 5 May 2024, and students wishing to transfer schools or boarding schools are being facilitated. “Next, LPSK together with relevant agencies will conduct assessments and strengthening for the students to encourage them to become witnesses or report the criminal acts they experienced,” Wawan concluded.