Dozens of Children Abused at Yogyakarta Daycare, Authorities Vow Crackdown

RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - Authorities in Yogyakarta are intensifying their response to the alleged child abuse case at Little Aresha Daycare in Sorosutan, Umbulharjo, after investigators revealed the scale of the violations. The case has shaken public confidence in childcare oversight and prompted urgent calls for reform.

Yogyakarta Mayor Hasto Wardoyo pledged direct assistance to the victims’ families, including medical treatment and counseling for children affected by trauma. He said his administration has coordinated with the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) and local police, and will meet families to ensure their needs are addressed.

“Starting today, I will meet with the families one by one. The government must be present in the midst of these families to ensure the children receive proper support and recovery,” Hasto said during National Press Day events on Sunday, April 26, 2026, as quoted by RRI.

He also vowed to crack down on unlicensed daycare centers and playgroups that fail to meet regulatory standards.

The Yogyakarta Special Region Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection, and Population Control Agency (DP3AP2) has joined efforts to monitor the case.

Agency head Erlina Sumardi condemned the abuse, calling it a serious human rights violation. She emphasized that children must be protected and pledged full support for the ongoing law enforcement process.

DP3AP2 will work with the Witness and Victim Protection Agency and other institutions to provide psychosocial and psychological support for victims and their families, ensuring long-term recovery.

Investigators found 53 children, mostly toddlers and infants, suffered abuse at the daycare, which had cared for 103 children in total. Reports indicate children were tied up while sleeping, left in overcrowded rooms, and in some cases sustained injuries such as bruises, scratches, and even pneumonia due to neglect.

The case came to light after a video of abuse circulated online and a former employee reported inhumane treatment.

Erlina added that the childcare licensing and monitoring system will be evaluated to strengthen safeguards. Public education campaigns on children’s rights and safe childcare services are also planned. “The Yogyakarta Special Region Administration is committed to building a responsive, integrated child protection system that prioritizes the best interests of children,” she said, as quoted by RRI.

Meanwhile, Yogyakarta Police Chief Senior Commissioner Eva Guna Pandia confirmed that 13 suspects have been identified, including the foundation head, a school principal, and 11 caregivers. Police have sealed off the daycare and will involve parents in medical examinations of their children.

The case underscores systemic failures in childcare oversight and highlights the urgent need for stronger protections. With the investigation ongoing, authorities are working to ensure accountability while reinforcing Yogyakarta’s commitment to becoming a child-friendly region. ***