Police Secure 25 Out-of-School Children During Protest, Pledge Education Access

Police stated that 25 children were temporarily detained and have since been released following the protest on 27 August. The police will coordinate with relevant stakeholders to help them return to school.

“Among the children who were detained, there are 25 children who are no longer in school. We will coordinate with the relevant parties to help them regain access to education,” said Director of General Criminal Investigation of Polda Metro Jaya, Senior Commissioner Iman Imanuddin, during a press conference on Friday (28/8/2026).

The police also provided assistance to children who are still students. Police carried out education and guidance by involving schools, teaching staff, and other relevant parties according to each child’s needs.

Head of Public Relations of Polda Metro Jaya, Senior Commissioner Budi Hermanto, added that families and the educational environment play an important role in paying attention to children’s activities and social circles. Police will coordinate with the Education Office to ensure the continuity of education while providing a positive development space for these children.

“Children must still have room to learn, grow, and prepare for their future. Therefore, the fulfilment of their rights, including the right to education, requires shared concern from families, schools, government, and society,” said Budi.

Director of PPA/PPO of Polda Metro Jaya, Senior Commissioner Rita Wulandari Wibowo, said that 152 children were temporarily detained in connection with the protest. Of these, 141 children have been released.

“Of the 152, we released 141 people,” said Rita Wulandari.

She said that of the 151 children who were detained, 149 were male and three were female. Some of the other children are still waiting to be picked up by their parents.

“Currently, there are still five children waiting to be picked up by their parents, two people have just been examined, and there is a new handover that we are still looking into,” she said.