Police upgrade Bantul religious disturbance case to formal investigation stage

Yogyakarta - The Yogyakarta Special Region Police (Polda DIY) has upgraded the status of the alleged religious disturbance case at Gereja Misi Sejahtera (GMS) in Bantul from preliminary investigation to formal investigation stage.

“On Friday, 29 May 2026, investigators conducted a case review and elevated the case to the formal investigation stage,” said Polda DIY Public Relations Chief Kombes Pol Ihsan on Monday.

The incident occurred on Sunday, 24 May at GMS in Panggungharjo, Sewon, Bantul.

Investigators have interviewed 16 witnesses in a marathon session to gather detailed information on the case.

Authorities have stressed they will not tolerate any form of disturbance, intimidation, or unilateral actions disrupting worship activities.

“We reiterate that freedom of worship is constitutionally guaranteed,” Ihsan stated.

He urged the public to remain calm and not be provoked by content or narratives circulating on social media, adding that the resolution of the case should be entrusted fully to the police and local government.

“We will continue to update developments regarding this case as part of our transparency and accountability to the public,” Ihsan said.

The case is being handled officially based on a police report dated 25 May 2026.