Pati Police Explain Delay in Case Against Pesantren Founder Accused of Abuse

In Pati, Indonesia, the local police are shedding light on the protracted legal process surrounding allegations of sexual abuse against Ashari, the founder of the Ndolo Kusumo Islamic boarding school (ponpes). The case, which initially surfaced in mid-2024 when a victim bravely came forward after graduating, has faced significant hurdles, leading to public questions about the delay.

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Reported in 2024, specifically in July, although it was initially mentioned from 2020. The victim only dared to speak up, report, after graduating from the boarding school.

Polresta Pati's Head of Criminal Investigation, Kompol Dika Hadian Widya Wiratama, explained that while the initial report was filed in July 2024, the alleged abuse dates back to 2020. The victim only felt empowered to report after completing her studies. The investigation revealed a total of five victims, but a major complication arose when three of them subsequently withdrew their testimonies. "Because some were withdrawn, it became an obstacle, which is why the case is taking a long time. Even though they were withdrawn, it did not stop the process, only hindered it," Dika stated.

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Because some were withdrawn, it became an obstacle, which is why the case is taking a long time. Even though they were withdrawn, it did not stop the process, only hindered it.

Despite these challenges, the police have maintained their commitment to pursuing the case. They have diligently gathered evidence, ultimately leading to Ashari being named a suspect in April 2026. His arrest this week in Wonogiri, Central Java, by a joint team from Polresta Pati, Polda Central Java, and Resmob Mabes Polri, marks a significant development. Ashari had reportedly evaded authorities, moving between several locations before his capture. This case, from an Indonesian perspective, underscores the complex realities faced by victims of abuse, particularly within institutional settings, and the often arduous journey towards justice. The police's efforts to navigate these difficulties and bring the suspect to justice highlight the ongoing commitment to addressing such sensitive issues within the community.

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Alhamdulillah, as time went by, we continued to gather all the evidence, and finally in 2026 we were convinced about all the criminal acts and the suspect, and we were able to name the reported person as a suspect.