Indonesian police have expanded their investigation into an alleged child abuse and neglect case at a daycare centre in Yogyakarta, naming 14 additional suspects on Monday and bringing the total number of suspects to 27, a police official said.
Police Raid and Initial Arrests
Police raided the Little Aresha daycare centre in late April, where they discovered dozens of children aged between two and six years old with their hands and feet tied. Some children were found tied to doors, according to authorities. At the time of the raid, police arrested 13 individuals, including the daycare's owner, its principal, and caregivers, on suspicion of child abuse and neglect. The centre was also operating without a licence, police confirmed.
New Suspects Named
Apri Sawitri, head of child protection at Yogyakarta's police criminal investigation unit, announced that the new suspects include 10 caregivers, a security officer, and administration staff. She stated that the caregivers are suspected of having "took part" in the abuse and neglect, while the security officer and other staff are alleged to have "allowed" it to occur. The new suspects are currently being questioned, and police will decide whether there are grounds to make arrests, Apri added.
The police have completed their investigation into the first 13 suspects, and the provincial prosecutor's office is drafting formal charges to be submitted to a local court. It remains unclear when the trial will begin, and Apri noted that more individuals could still be named as suspects as investigations continue.
Outrage and Ongoing Investigation
The case has sparked widespread outrage in Indonesia, drawing attention to the safety of children in daycare facilities. The daycare, located in the cultural city of Yogyakarta, lacked a proper licence, raising questions about regulatory oversight. Police are continuing their investigation, with the possibility of additional charges or suspects as more evidence emerges.
