Ministry of Human Rights Monitors Alleged Rape Case at Buleleng Orphanage
The Ministry of Human Rights (HAM) has highlighted the case of alleged abuse up to rape of children at the Ganesha Sevanam Orphanage in Buleleng, Bali. The Ministry of HAM promises to ensure victim protection while monitoring the legal process to run transparently and in favour of the children.
This was stated by Expert Staff of the Ministry of HAM for Human Trafficking and Gross Human Rights Violations, Martinus Gabriel Goa, during a working visit to Buleleng. He emphasised that the state is present to protect victims, especially as they are children under institutional care.
“The state is obliged to be present to ensure their sense of safety, education, health services, and psychological recovery are fulfilled,” Martinus stressed during the working visit to the Buleleng Regent’s Office on Friday (10/4/2026).
Martinus explained that the presence of the Ministry of HAM is not merely for monitoring, but to ensure the case handling runs comprehensively. He urged law enforcement officials to act firmly, professionally, and sensitively towards victims.
“Law enforcement must be carried out seriously, in favour of the victims, and upholding justice,” said Martinus.
The Ministry of HAM also reminded of the crucial importance of witness and victim protection. Martinus encouraged local government and police to involve the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) so that victims receive maximum protection, including the right to restitution during the legal process.
“Cross-institutional collaboration is needed. This is not just about enforcement, but also comprehensive victim recovery,” he added.
The Ministry of HAM also highlighted the irony in this case. According to Martinus, an orphanage that should be a safe space is allegedly the location of serious violence against children.
“We will monitor this case until it is resolved. The legal process must be objective, transparent, and professional. Children’s rights to justice must not be ignored,” Martinus stressed.
On the other hand, this case also opens serious gaps in the orphanage licensing and supervision system. Martinus assessed that the establishment of social institutions is not sufficient based only on administrative legality. But it also needs strict assessment from the Social Services regarding the suitability of managers and internal supervision systems.
“It’s not enough to just have a permit. There must be comprehensive evaluation and periodic supervision,” he said.
Currently, the operational permit of the Ganesha Sevanam Orphanage is said to have been temporarily frozen. The Ministry of HAM also warned of the need for early anticipation regarding the potential misuse of social institutions as a cover for human trafficking crimes (TPPO).
“In some regions, there are TPPO methods through foundations. This must be anticipated from the start,” said Martinus.
Case Chronology
It is known that the case of abuse up to rape against children at the Ganesha Sevanam Orphanage has come under public scrutiny. The Buleleng Police Resort has named the foundation chairman, I Made Wijaya alias Jro Mangku Wijaya Dangin (57), as a suspect and immediately detained him.
The suspect is alleged to have carried out his depraved actions repeatedly. At least seven orphanage children are suspected to have been victims of physical or sexual violence.
“Based on investigation results, it was found that the suspect not only committed crimes against one victim, but also against several children under his care,” revealed the Buleleng Police Chief, AKBP Ruzi Gusman, on Monday (6/4).
Police are tracing other victims in the alleged abuse and rape case at the orphanage. The Buleleng Police Resort is opening complaint services for anyone brave enough to report.
In addition, the Buleleng Police Resort is also providing various reporting channels for unidentified victims. Victims from the community can come directly to the police office, contact the emergency service 110, or through social services and child protection institutions.
“We guarantee the confidentiality of reporters’ identities; what’s important is to speak up. All information will certainly be followed up,” Ruzi stressed.