Police disband Ahmadiyya youth camp in Indonesia amid protests

A youth camp organized by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Karanganyar, Central Java, was shut down by police on Friday, June 5, 2026, after a protest by a coalition of Islamic organizations. The event, intended to run from Friday to Sunday, was disrupted by approximately 100 individuals from the Forum Ukhuwah Umat Islam Solo Raya (FUUI-SOYA), who declared the Ahmadiyya community to be heretical.

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Thousands of children and teenagers who were supposed to participate in the camping activities from Friday to Sunday were forced to go home due to pressure from a demonstration by about 100 people representing the Forum Ukhuwah Umat Islam Solo Raya, with the reason that Ahmadiyah is deviant.

Yendra Budiana, spokesperson for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Indonesia, confirmed the disbandment and stated that thousands of children and teenagers participating in the camp were forced to return home early. He explained that the camp's activities included sports, hiking, games, and communal prayers. Budiana expressed dismay, noting that the community had previously held similar events in the same location without incident and had coordinated with the venue owner. He argued that the forced closure of a constitutionally legitimate community event under pressure from a specific group poses a threat to public order and security.

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We view the disbandment of constitutionally legitimate community activities by mass organizations for any reason as a threat to the security and order of the community, nation, and state, which should be united in facing various challenges, including the current global crisis situation.

Abu Hambra, secretary of FUUI-SOYA, acknowledged the protest, stating their objection was based on concerns about the spread of Ahmadiyya teachings. He confirmed that the organization had officially submitted a letter of objection to the relevant authorities. Budiana indicated that the Ahmadiyya community intends to engage in dialogue with local police and government officials to understand the reasons behind the disbandment and to find future solutions. He stressed that such actions by community organizations against legitimate activities could undermine national unity, especially during a global crisis.

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We also submitted an official letter of objection. The rejection was made because of concerns about the spread of Ahmadiyya teachings.