Olena Wibisana, Yogyakarta – Police in Yogyakarta have named 13 suspects in a child abuse case at a daycare facility, following an investigation involving 30 individuals after a video allegedly showing abuse at the center circulated online.

The daycare center, Little Aresha, located on Jalan Pakel, has since been shut down and sealed by authorities.

The suspects, including the head of the foundation that operated the facility and several daycare employees, have been detained, Yogyakarta Police spokesperson Chief Commissioner Ihsan said on Sunday.

"We are deeply concerned about this incident, and a criminal investigation has been launched. Last night, Yogyakarta Metro Police named 13 suspects, all of whom were immediately detained. Police remain firmly committed to protecting our children," Ihsan said.

Earlier, Yogyakarta Metro Police Chief Eva Guna Pandia said the suspects consist of the foundation's head, the daycare manager, and 11 caregivers.

Authorities said the number of suspects could still increase as the investigation continues.

Based on preliminary findings, police identified 53 children as victims of abuse at the daycare center, most of them around two years old. In several cases, some children were allegedly tied up while sleeping. Before it was closed, the facility was caring for 103 children.

Local councilor Eko Suwanto urged law enforcement authorities to take firm action against those responsible.

"There must be no tolerance for violence against children. This case must be fully resolved through the legal process. We urge investigators to uncover everything. The masterminds and perpetrators of these crimes must face severe punishment, because violence against children and toddlers is an extraordinary crime," Eko said.

The tough law on child protection carries a maximum sentence of death by firing squad.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/yogyakarta-police-name-13-suspects-in-child-abuse-case-at-daycare-cente