Ex-Regent Sudewo's Trial Descends into Chaos as Supporters Storm Court, Block Vehicle

The trial of former Pati Regent Sudewo at the Semarang Corruption Court in Central Java was marred by chaos on Monday, June 29, 2026, shortly after Sudewo's court appearance and as he was being transported back to the Semarang Class I Detention Center.

The court had decided to reject the preliminary objection filed by Sudewo, meaning the examination of the case involving alleged corruption in a Directorate General of Railways (DJKA) project and extortion of village officials would continue. Following the hearing, Sudewo was escorted to a police vehicle parked in the court's lobby area. Outside the court, thousands of Sudewo's supporters had gathered to show their solidarity with the Partai Gerindra politician.

Before entering the vehicle, Sudewo was allowed to address his supporters. "The people of Pati pray for you, Mr. Regent Sudewo is innocent," shouted one supporter through a loudspeaker. Sudewo himself denied the charges brought by the KPK prosecutor, stating, "I have never sold or bought positions." He further asserted that he was not a cruel leader and always considered the development of Pati Regency.

As Sudewo was being taken to the vehicle, his supporters refused to clear the path, blocking the gate. "Don't let them pass," a speaker urged through the loudspeaker. Despite the obstruction, the vehicle slowly proceeded with the escort of dozens of police personnel. The agitated crowd began banging on the vehicle, shouting, "Free Pak Sudewo."

During the commotion, some supporters claimed Sudewo was being beaten inside the vehicle. "Pak Dewo was punched, Pak Dewo was punched," one supporter exclaimed, urging the crowd to enter the court premises. The situation escalated as supporters began climbing the fence and throwing water bottles at the court building.

Sudewo was then transferred to an armored personnel carrier (APC), which attempted to exit the court grounds. However, supporters continued to block its path, with some even climbing onto the APC. As the crowd became unmanageable, Sudewo was allowed to speak from the APC, appealing for calm and asking his supporters to "Please make way."

Despite Sudewo's plea, his supporters persisted in blocking the APC, demanding an apology from those they accused of assaulting him, whom they identified as KPK escorts. The article cuts off at this point, leaving the resolution of the standoff unclear.