Two Suspects in The Sounds Project Blasphemy Case Detained by Polda Metro Jaya
Polda Metro Jaya has officially detained two individuals suspected of committing blasphemy during The Sounds Project music festival in Ancol, North Jakarta. The detention was carried out after the case was transferred from the North Jakarta Metro Police to the General Criminal Investigation Directorate of Polda Metro Jaya.
Based on observations at the scene on Thursday (13/8/2026) at around 4.30 p.m. Western Indonesia Time, the two suspects, identified by the initials E (male) and R (female), were seen wearing detention uniforms with their hands cuffed. Both were escorted out of the General Criminal Investigation Directorate room under strict guard by officers towards the Polda Metro Jaya Detention Centre.
Previously, the North Jakarta Metro Police had taken the two suspects into custody on Wednesday (12/8). The Acting Chief of the North Jakarta Metro Police, Senior Commissioner Oki Waskito, confirmed the arrests and stated that the case status had been elevated to the investigation stage.
The Head of Public Relations of Polda Metro Jaya, Senior Commissioner Budi Hermanto, explained that the handling of the case has now been fully taken over by Polda Metro Jaya. “That is correct, it is being handled by the General Criminal Investigation Directorate of Polda Metro Jaya,” said Budi when confirmed.
The case originated from a viral video uploaded on social media platform X through the account @Jakartatalk. In the video, a beverage brand was seen holding a challenge for one of the festival visitors during the event on Sunday (9/8).
The challenge became controversial because it showed a visitor reciting a verse from the Holy Quran in a context deemed inappropriate. This triggered a strong reaction from netizens and the wider public, ultimately leading to legal reports being filed.
The organisers of The Sounds Project have issued a formal apology through their social media accounts. The organisers emphasised that the challenge was carried out without the direction, coordination, or approval of the festival management.