Police Confirm Abah Setu Will Face Legal Process Despite Apology
The leader of the Nurul Hikam Dhikr Council, Asep Setiawan, also known as Abah Setu, has apologised for statements deemed insulting to Prophet Muhammad SAW. The case, which was reported to the Bekasi Metro Police, is still ongoing.
“It is still (in progress); so far, there has been no withdrawal of the report,” stated Bekasi Metro Police Chief, Kombes Andi Oddang, to journalists in Cikarang, West Java, on Friday (11/09/2026).
Andi Oddang noted that the police have received reports from the public regarding the alleged blasphemy committed by Abah Setu. The authorities are preparing the next steps to follow up on the report.
“The report has been filed, and we will adjust our future steps accordingly,” said Oddang.
“As of now, the Bekasi MUI (Indonesian Ulema Council) has expressed that they and the community, particularly in Bekasi Regency, have forgiven him,” Oddang added.
A video featuring Abah Setu making remarks about Prophet Muhammad caused significant unrest. Consequently, Abah Setu was confronted by a mob on Monday night, 7 September 2026, following his statements.
Abah Setu’s Clarification
Asep Setiawan, alias Abah Setu, provided a clarification regarding his statements deemed insulting to Prophet Muhammad SAW. Abah Setu apologised for his words which had caused the public disturbance.
This apology was delivered during a mediation and clarification process attended by the Bekasi Regency MUI, religious and community leaders, and various mass organisations at the Bekasi Metro Police Headquarters on Thursday (10/09/2026).
In his statement, Abah Setu admitted his error regarding the remarks that offended the Muslim community and expressed his deepest apologies.
“Regarding the circulation of the video that offends Muslims and insults Prophet Muhammad SAW, I hereby acknowledge and admit my error, as the video has indeed offended and insulted the Muslim community. Therefore, I offer my sincerest apologies,” said Abah Setu.
During the session, Abah Setu also announced that he would cease all activities at the Nurul Hikam Dhikr Council that he leads, including his social media content.
“Secondly, I will cease all activities related to anything that may offend the Muslim community, including social media content and any covert teachings that have the potential to insult or mislead Muslims,” he stated.
Abah Setu also expressed his intention to be cooperative and is prepared to take responsibility for his actions in accordance with applicable laws.
“Thirdly, I am willing to be held accountable under the law, and should I repeat similar actions in the future,” he said.
He also pledged to uphold the dignity of the Prophet Muhammad SAW in all circumstances. “Fifthly, I will constantly seek to improve and validate the truth and glory of Islam through righteous scholars,” he added.
“I make this statement truthfully and in good faith, and I am prepared to be held accountable under the law, and even before Allah SWT,” he concluded.