Teenagers behind bars

Teenagers behind bars

While most teenagers spend their time having fun with their
peers at malls or cinemas, some are behind bars, in youth
penitentiaries for a range of juvenile offenses.

This series of photos highlights teenagers at the youth
penitentiary in Tangerang, Banten. These youths were jailed after
being convicted of crimes including drug trafficking, theft,
robbery, sexual abuse and murder.

Their now-disciplined days start each morning, when they
attend classes in the penitentiary school compound. After school,
they are trained in handicraft making, engine repairs, sewing,
art or cooking.

Some of the youths, many of whom are from disadvantaged or
abusive backgrounds, say they suffer from loneliness and sorrow
inside, while others remain optimistic about their future. --
Text and photos by R. Berto Wedhatama

Photo A: BAR

A young youth with tattoos on his back draws a mural inside his
cell. Creativity inside the jail is encouraged.

Photo B: BAR

A youngster cooks soup at the jail's kitchen for fellow inmates.
The prison's management only allows trusted prisoners to use
knives.

Photo C: BAR

A sculpture of a concrete diary reads: "We transgressed the law
yesterday, we are now learning, and tomorrow we will become law
enforcers" in the prison's yard. The sculpture aims to instill
optimism in the hearts of the young convicts.

Photo D: BAR

Inmates are allowed to relax in the afternoon.

Photo E: BAR

An former inmate wears a red badge that indicates his status as a
social worker in the jail compound. When the youths are released,
they can apply to become volunteers to help rehabilitate other
prisoners.

Photo F: BAR

Young inmates give a victory sign. Despite having lost their
freedom, the youngsters are still able to share light moments in
jail.

Photo G: BAR

Wearing jeans and a T-shirt, an inmate enjoys a meal.