TNI Member in Kendari Becomes Wanted Suspect in Child Molestation Case, Pursued by Military Police

A member of the TNI in Kendari, initialled Sertu SMB, has been added to the Wanted Persons List (DPO) for an alleged case of sexual violence against an underage child in the area. The declaration of DPO status was announced by the Detachment of Military Police (Denpom) XIV/3 Kendari, which has begun searching for Sertu SMB.

The Commander of Denpom XIV/3 Kendari, Lieutenant Colonel CPM Haryadi Budaya Pela, stated in Kendari on Friday, 1 May 2026, that the DPO designation was made because the individual fled during an intensive examination related to the alleged legal violation.

“We have requested his unit to issue a DPO warrant against the perpetrator. Our intelligence members have also gone to the field to conduct the search,” said Haryadi.

He explained that the case file for Sertu SMB had been handed over from his unit in Kodim 1417/Kendari to Denpom for further handling. Although the perpetrator has fled, the investigation process continues with the examination of three witnesses, including the victim’s parents.

“We have not yet taken a statement from the victim because she is still traumatised and has just finished her school exams,” he said.

Haryadi emphasised that his side is committed to resolving the case transparently, given that it has the attention of TNI AD leadership.

Sertu SMB also faces layered charges, namely alleged sexual violence against a child as well as desertion or unauthorised absence (THTI) for leaving his duties without explanation. “We will apply layered articles according to the actions committed,” he asserted.

In the pursuit process, Denpom XIV/3 Kendari is coordinating with Kodim 1417/Kendari and requesting assistance from the Sulawesi Tenggara Regional Police to expedite the arrest. They also urged Sertu SMB to surrender immediately.

Meanwhile, the Commander of Kodim 1417/Kendari, Colonel Arm Danny AP Girsang, expressed apologies for the alleged actions of his member.

He explained that Sertu SMB fled during an internal examination under the pretext of going for a meal but did not return.

Based on initial examination results, the perpetrator, who still has a family relationship with the victim, is alleged to have committed sexual violence on 15 April at his residence and is suspected of doing so repeatedly. “We do not tolerate this. Legal processes will be enforced in accordance with applicable provisions,” said Danny.