Special Needs School Teacher in Yogyakarta Accused of Sexual Harassment of Student Becomes Suspect

A teacher at a Special Needs School (SLB) in Yogyakarta who was suspected of sexually harassing one of his students has been formally designated as a suspect.

The teacher, identified by the initials IM, was reported to the Yogyakarta Regional Police (Polresta Yogyakarta) in mid-February 2026 on suspicion of indecent conduct against his 17-year-old student.

“We have established him as a suspect today,” said Ipda Apri Sawitri, Head of the Women and Child Protection Unit (PPA) at Satreskrim Polresta Yogyakarta, when contacted on Tuesday evening (10 March).

Apri explained that the designation of IM as a suspect was based on three pieces of evidence, including a psychological report, witness statements, and physical evidence.

Under Law No. 20 of 2025 concerning the New Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), Apri noted that physical evidence is now legally recognised as evidence.

“To designate someone as a suspect, the requirement is to have a minimum of two pieces of evidence, but we already have three,” she stated.

On the other hand, Apri said that IM also admitted to his actions when examined as a reporting witness previously.

“He was cooperative and admitted to his actions. His confession is consistent with the sexual harassment charges being applied,” Apri explained.

Although designated as a suspect, police have not yet detained IM. The reason given is that officers only conducted the first formal examination of IM in his capacity as a suspect today.

Previously, IM was reported to the Women and Child Protection Unit at Satreskrim Polresta Yogyakarta regarding alleged sexual harassment or indecent conduct against the victim on Friday morning (20 February).

The victim’s legal representative stated that IM’s actions occurred multiple times between November and December 2025. According to allegations, the perpetrator’s actions took place both inside and outside the classroom. The victim is reported to have experienced trauma as a result.

Through an internal investigation by the school, the perpetrator admitted to his actions. The Regional Education and Sports Office (Disdikpora) DIY announced it would dismiss IM whilst the investigation into the matter continues.