Police Detain 60-Year-Old Grandfather for Allegedly Abusing 32 Students in Makassar

Police have detained a 60-year-old grandfather in Makassar, South Sulawesi, after he was reported for the alleged sexual abuse of 32 elementary school students. ‘Yes, the perpetrator has been detained,’ said Makassar Police PPA Unit Head, First Inspector Arianto, on Monday (20/7). However, Arianto stated that investigators have not yet determined when the actions of the perpetrator, who owned a shop at one of the elementary schools, began, as the investigation is still ongoing. ‘We have not examined everyone yet,’ he said. The case was uncovered by the Makassar City Office of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (DPPA), beginning when three students were suspected of being victims of abuse allegedly committed by the perpetrator last June. ‘Initially, only three students were suspected of being victims, but after data collection and assistance, the number increased to 32 students,’ said Fony Ataul, secretary of the Antang Residents’ Shelter at the Makassar City Government DPPPA. Fony explained that the perpetrator’s actions occurred when the students bought snacks at the perpetrator’s shop located in front of the school. ‘The children usually buy snacks at the shop when they arrive, go out to play, or go home from school. It was at that time that the victims were allegedly harassed,’ she revealed. Fony said the 60-year-old grandfather used various methods when the victims came to shop at his store. ‘The methods were varied; some were held and groped. One of the victims has undergone a post-mortem examination because they experienced a tear in their genitals,’ she explained. The case is currently being handled by the police, who have detained the perpetrator for further investigation.