Police Still Investigating Abuse Case Involving Employer of Domestic Worker in North Jakarta, Focusing on Victim's Recovery

Video narrations circulated showing an employer abusing a domestic worker (ART) in North Jakarta recently went viral, even though the incident occurred in 2023. The police said the employer and the domestic worker have forgiven each other, but the investigation is still underway. ‘The case was reported on Monday, 2 March 2026, and is being handled by Satres PPA and PPO of the North Jakarta Metropolitan Police. It is still under investigation and will be handled professionally, transparently, and in accordance with the law,’ said Public Relations Head Kombes Budi Hermanto to reporters on Wednesday (4 March 2026). He said the force is also focusing on the victim’s recovery and is deepening the investigation. ‘In addition, we ensure the protection and recovery of the victim remains a priority. Investigators have facilitated the victim to the P3A services for psychological rehabilitation and also arranged for a forensic medical examination (VER) at RSUD Tanjung Priok,’ he added. The incident occurred in 2023, police said. The victim was a 57-year-old woman identified as S, who worked at the residence of the suspect, HW, 42. ‘Investigators have checked the scene of the crime, which occurred around February 2023,’ explained Sat PPA/PPO Chief Kompol Ni Luh Sri Arsini. At the time, HW was cleaning a place of worship at his home; however, the victim contaminated the worship area, leading to a miscommunication. ‘Then the perpetrator beat and kicked the victim’s back,’ Sri stated. Despite the assault, the perpetrator apologised and the victim forgave him; the two reportedly reconciled. ‘Not long after the incident, they reconciled,’ Sri added. She also noted the victim did not report to the police because she still remains employed at the perpetrator’s home. Although they have reconciled, police are still investigating the case: ‘The case is still under investigation,’ Sri said.