Police have confirmed that at least five individuals have been identified as victims of alleged sexual abuse by Asyhari, the caretaker of the Ndholo Kusumo Islamic Boarding School (Ponpes) in Tlogowungu, Pati Regency. However, this figure stands in stark contrast to claims made by the victims’ legal counsel, Ali Yusron, who alleges that as many as 50 female students may have been victimized.
Discrepancy in Victim Figures
Addressing the investigation on Tuesday (May 5), Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit (Kasat Reskrim) of the Pati Police, Commissioner Dika Hadian Widya Wiratama, clarified the current status of the case. “From the start of the reporting process until now, there have been five identified victims. Of those five, three have since withdrawn their statements,” Dika explained, leaving police with testimony from only two individuals, including the initial whistleblower.
Regarding the attorney’s claim of 50 victims, Dika urged the legal team to provide valid, verifiable data. He warned against spreading unverified information, which could lead to public unrest and undermine the integrity of the investigation. “If there are indeed 50, we request the data. We want to avoid unsubstantiated claims that turn into rampant rumors. If our goals are aligned, please provide us with the information so we can investigate it thoroughly. I guarantee that the identities of any victims who come forward will be protected,” he emphasized.
Commitment to Prosecution
Despite the withdrawal of statements by some victims, Dika assured the public that the investigation into the sexual assault allegations would not be halted. He explained that because the case is categorized as a general crime rather than a complaint-based offense (delik aduan), the legal process remains active under the Criminal Code regardless of individual retractions. “There is no reason for the case to stop,” he added.
To build a robust case, the police are encouraging other potential victims, their families, and the local community to come forward. Dika reiterated that the police remain strictly committed to maintaining the confidentiality and anonymity of all individuals who report such incidents. “We urge anyone who has been a victim to contact the Criminal Investigation Unit directly. You do not need to worry about your privacy; we guarantee it,” he stated.
Seeking Justice for Victims
Dika expressed his gratitude toward the victims who have displayed the courage to speak out, noting that their testimony is vital for holding the perpetrator accountable. He believes that a higher number of substantiated reports will allow the court to consider the maximum possible sentence for the suspect. “Our common goal is to ensure the perpetrator receives the maximum penalty. A larger number of victim reports will serve as a critical factor for the judges to weigh during the sentencing phase,” he said.
Prior to these official updates, attorney Ali Yusron had previously stated that eight students had sought his assistance to report the abuse. He further alleged that based on witness accounts, the actual number of victims could range from 30 to 50, most of whom were minors attending junior high school at the time of the alleged offenses.
Summary
The Pati Police have clarified that only five students have been identified as victims of alleged sexual abuse by the caretaker of the Ndholo Kusumo Islamic Boarding School, contradicting claims from legal counsel that up to 50 students were affected. Police officials have urged the attorney to provide verifiable evidence for these higher figures to ensure an accurate investigation and avoid the spread of unconfirmed rumors.
Despite some victims withdrawing their initial statements, authorities confirmed that the investigation will proceed as a general crime, meaning the legal process remains active. Police are actively encouraging additional victims to come forward, guaranteeing strict confidentiality and anonymity to ensure that the perpetrator faces the maximum possible penalty under the law.