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Mass sex abuse allegations force closure of boarding school in Indonesia
In early May 2026, allegations of sexual abuse by Kiai Ashari at the Ndholo Kusumo Islamic boarding school in Tlogosari, Central Java, led to a police naming of a suspect and a public confrontation. The authorities later revoked the school's license and ordered a shutdown, with students redirected to online learning or other institutions.
Why It Matters
The case underscores ongoing concerns about safeguarding and oversight of Islamic boarding schools in Indonesia and highlights regulatory gaps that can hinder reporting and protection for vulnerable students.
Timeline
6 Events
Closure of school and licensing actions
May 13, 2026
Following the allegations, the Ministry of Religious Affairs permanently revoked Ndholo Kusumo’s license; the school was closed and students were sent home with online learning options or transfers. New admissions were suspended until issues are resolved and standards met. The school reportedly had a permit since 2021 and housed at least 252 students. The ministry also recommended dismissal of any staff suspected of abuse and the appointment of new, capable teachers.
Abuse timeline disclosed by police
May 7, 2026
Pati police chief stated that the victim was allegedly abused 10 times at different locations between February 2020 and January 2024.
Suspect flees and is recaptured
May 6, 2026
Ashari fled Pati for Bogor, Jakarta and Solo before being caught by police on the night of May 6 at a mosque in Wonogiri, Central Java.
Police statement on detention status
May 4, 2026
Pati police said Ashari had not yet been detained but would not flee.
Mob protest outside the school
May 2, 2026
Hundreds gathered at the Ndholo Kusumo boarding school, chanting and holding banners; Ashari was escorted away by police while facing allegations of sexually abusing dozens of female students, most of them orphans.
Suspect named in case
April 28, 2026
Investigators named Kiai Ashari as a suspect in the sexual abuse case against female students at the Ndholo Kusumo boarding school.