Delfi Neski, Jakarta – The West Sumatra Regional Police have arrested nine individuals suspected of vandalizing a Christian prayer house in Padang Sarai Subdistrict, Koto Tangah District, Padang City, West Sumatra, on Sunday.
In addition to damaging the prayer house, the suspects also reportedly committed acts of violence against children who were present at the scene.
Restu Hapsari, a member of the Presidium for Interfaith and Belief Dialogue of the Central Board of the Indonesian Catholic Scholars Association, condemned the incident. According to her, the event was a form of intolerance that cannot be justified and is deeply troubling.
"Law enforcement must ensure that all facts are uncovered, including the motives behind the vandalism. The significant damage seen in videos, such as broken chairs, overturned tables, dismantled fences, and four shattered window panes, indicates intentional actions rather than a simple misunderstanding," Restu stated.
Restu said the incident constitutes a violation of the Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the freedom to worship. The state, through local government and security forces, bears the responsibility to ensure that all religious groups can practice their faith safely and without fear.
"Regardless of the motive, this incident reflects a vulnerability to acts of intolerance. It is essential for the local government not only to focus on post-incident response but also to educate the public about religious tolerance and the importance of maintaining interfaith harmony," she stressed.
Her organization urged for increased dialogue among religious leaders and communities to prevent similar incidents in the future. She emphasized that the perpetrators must be identified and legally prosecuted according to applicable laws.
"Firm law enforcement will send a strong signal that acts of intolerance will not be tolerated in Padang or anywhere in Indonesia," she stated.
Beyond legal measures, she said, it is important to restore the damaged prayer house and provide psychological support to the affected congregation. Without proper treatment, the trauma caused by this incident could have long-term consequences.
"We urge all relevant parties, including the Padang city government, the police, and community leaders, to work together seriously and professionally in resolving this case. This is not just about a single prayer house, but about our shared commitment to uphold tolerance and religious harmony in Indonesia," Restu concluded.
Padang Mayor Fadly Amran said the incident – vandalism of the prayer house, which also served as a Christian education center for students in Padang Sarai – was the result of a misunderstanding among residents. Fadly clarified that the building in question was a Christian educational facility, not a church.
Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/nine-arrested-after-vandalism-of-christian-prayer-house-in-padan