Number of alleged sexual abuse victims at Pati Islamic boarding school rises
The case involving alleged sexual abuse and harassment by the founder and caretaker of Ndolo Kusumo Islamic Boarding School in Pati Regency, Central Java, continues to develop. The number of victims reporting to police has increased, with investigators probing claims of sexual violence alleged to have occurred over an extended period.
Monitoring at the boarding school in Tlogosari Village, Tlogowungu Subdistrict, on Saturday (23 May) revealed an unusual quietness. Two student dormitory complexes were deserted after activities at the school were halted. The entrance to the male students’ dormitory was covered with white cloth, and there was no longer the usual bustling activity of students from morning until night.
Amid this situation, Pati Police Station investigators continue to interview witnesses following additional reports of alleged sexual abuse and harassment by suspect A.
Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit at Pati Police Station, Kompol Dika Hadiyan Widya Wiratama, stated that three victims have officially reported to police. All are female students who previously attended the boarding school.
“Yes, there have been additional victims reporting sexual abuse and harassment by suspect A, bringing the total to three female students from the boarding school who have come forward,” Dika said on Saturday (23 May).
He added that the case is being handled jointly by Pati Police Station and Central Java Provincial Police. Authorities are also considering the possibility of additional victims who have not yet come forward due to fear.
Different periods
Dika explained that the three victims experienced alleged sexual violence during different periods. One victim reported abuse in 2013, another in 2020, while the third alleged harassment between 2023 and 2024 while still a student.
Investigators believe the suspect’s alleged abuse patterns are similar. The suspect is suspected of exploiting his position as a teacher and caretaker to establish a power dynamic over the victims.
“The suspect’s modus operandi is believed to involve exploiting the doctrine of student obedience to teachers, leaving victims fearful and powerless during the abuse,” Dika said.
During the investigation, police have interviewed around 18 witnesses, including victims, school officials, teachers, families of victims and the suspect, female students, and expert witnesses.
In addition to witness interviews, investigators have sought psychiatric expert opinions to strengthen the case. The expert findings are pending before the case file is handed over to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
Police have also secured evidence, including clothing belonging to victims and the suspect, bed sheets, and other items suspected to be linked to the crime. “Suspect A is currently detained at the Central Java Provincial Police Detention Centre,” Dika said.
Public concern
The case has drawn public attention due to allegations that the actual number of victims is much higher than the official reports. Ali Yusron, a lawyer representing one victim, estimated over 50 people may have been sexually abused by the suspect.
However, he stated that most victims have not come forward due to trauma, psychological pressure, and fear. “The victim I am handling is one person who experienced sexual abuse between 2020 and 2023 while studying at the boarding school,” Ali Yusron said.
He noted many victims remain under psychological stress from the power dynamics within the boarding school environment. Additionally, some are reportedly afraid of social stigma if they disclose their experiences.
The alleged sexual abuse case in a religious education setting has reignited calls for stronger oversight and protection systems for students. Child protection experts note that the strong teacher-student power dynamics in boarding schools often make it difficult for victims to resist or report abuse.
Police continue to accept reports from other potential victims. Investigators confirmed the case will be further developed to uncover additional victims or previously undiscovered abuse patterns. (E-2)