Babies among those tied up and allegedly abused in Indonesia childcare centre

The Yogyakarta government announced the need for thorough psychological and physical assessments of alleged victims. Trauma healing services were arranged for parents. Mayor Hasto Wardoyo pledged to inspect other childcare facilities in the city and raise public awareness about verified services. A lawmaker urged a full investigation into Little Aresha.

Police detained and questioned around 30 people from Little Aresha on Saturday. Thirteen individuals were arrested and accused of mistreatment and neglect; authorities indicated that the centre lacked an operating permit.

Police raided the Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta after a tip from an informant. Investigators said evidence included injuries and hands or feet that had been tied; 103 children were enrolled and around 53 were believed to be victims, with the majority under two years old. Authorities also said the centre did not have an operating permit. The centre has remained closed since the raid.

KPAI reported that of more than 100 daycare centres in Depok, fewer than 20% were licensed, underscoring licensing issues in Indonesian childcare facilities.

In 2024, a daycare centre in Depok, south of Jakarta, came under scrutiny after viral security camera footage appeared to show two toddlers being mistreated by a woman. A subsequent probe by the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) examined daycare centres in Depok and found licensing gaps.