RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) is investigating allegations of child abuse at Little Aresha Daycare in Yogyakarta, describing the case as more systematic than similar incidents in Depok and Pekanbaru.

“I see this daycare case as somewhat different from the problematic daycares in Depok or Pekanbaru. This one is much more systematic,” said KPAI Commissioner Diyah Puspitarini on Sunday, April 26, 2026.

Diyah cited examples of toddlers being subjected to inhumane treatment, such as having their hands or feet tied at certain times. She noted that caregivers appeared to be following instructions, suggesting the existence of an internal system. “It’s as if there’s an SOP for tying the children’s feet or hands at certain times. Caregivers carry this out because there are such instructions,” she said.

KPAI has urged police to investigate the involvement of all parties connected to the foundation, including its leadership and owners. Diyah emphasized that the abuse had been ongoing for some time and occurred repeatedly.

The commission commended the police for their swift response in raiding the daycare following public complaints. Diyah stressed that the case must be handled quickly under the Child Protection Law, with victims receiving psychosocial support.

“In accordance with Article 59A of the Child Protection Law, KPAI hopes that children who receive special protection will be processed expeditiously. These children will receive psychosocial support, social assistance, and legal protection,” she said.

KPAI also called for protection from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK), noting that several families of victims had been approached by unknown individuals.

Diyah urged the Yogyakarta City Administration to evaluate daycare licensing and ensure caregivers and managers receive proper training. “We’re providing guidance to all daycares and their managers. Of course, KPAI hopes this daycare will be permanently closed,” she added.

Meanwhile, Yogyakarta Police Criminal Investigation Unit head Risky Adrian confirmed that 53 children were victims of abuse at Little Aresha Daycare. Police have questioned around 30 people in connection with the case.

“Some parents said their children were afraid of being left behind. It turns out violence occurred at the daycare. Based on the data, there are 53 children,” Risky said.

Yogyakarta Police Chief Senior Commissioner Eva Guna Pandia announced that 13 individuals have been named as suspects, including a foundation head, a school principal, and 11 caregivers. “As of tonight, we have conducted a case review and named 13 temporary suspects,” she told reporters at the Amongrogo Sports Hall on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

The suspects are being charged under several provisions of Law No. 35/2014 on Child Protection, including Article 76A in conjunction with Article 77, Article 76B in conjunction with Article 77B, and Article 76C in conjunction with Article 80, paragraph (1).

“The crime is treating children in a discriminatory manner or placing, allowing, involving, or ordering the involvement of children in situations of mistreatment or neglect,” Pandia said. (Misni Parjiati/Lasti Martina)