The alleged sexual abuse case involving a prominent religious figure, identified by the initials SAM, has reached a critical new phase. This development comes as the victims’ legal representatives push for justice in a case that has drawn significant public attention and concern.
On Thursday, March 12, the legal team representing the victims, led by Beny Jehadu from Muhammad Ali Nurdin’s firm, visited the National Police Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim Polri). Their visit was aimed at closely monitoring the progress of the report, which had been officially registered for five months, underscoring the team’s unwavering commitment to the victims’ pursuit of legal redress.
The individual at the center of these grave allegations, Ustaz SAM, is widely recognized not only as a religious teacher but also as a judge on a popular Quran memorization talent show broadcast on a private television station. He stands accused of committing indecent acts against five male students (santri) at an Islamic boarding school (pondok pesantren), an accusation that has sent shockwaves through the community.
In a significant procedural advancement, Beny Jehadu confirmed that law enforcement authorities have elevated the status of his clients’ report. The case has now officially progressed to the investigation stage (naik sidik) within the Women and Children’s Service Unit (PPA) of Bareskrim Polri. “We conveyed our appreciation to the investigators at Bareskrim, specifically through the PPA unit. As the victims’ legal counsel, we certainly commend the progress made on our initial report, which has been ongoing for nearly five months,” Beny told reporters.
Beny further revealed that all five victims are male and were underage at the time the alleged incidents occurred. The victims have been identified by their initials: IM, RAP, AYM, M.I.M, and AR. To bolster the legal team’s submission, crucial evidence has been presented to the investigators, including chat logs, videos, and several other pertinent materials, all designed to strengthen the prosecution’s case.
Disturbingly, the heinous acts attributed to this religious figure allegedly spanned a significant period, from 2017 up to 2025. Adding to the gravity of the situation, the perpetrator reportedly offered apologies and promised to cease his actions, only to allegedly re-offend. Beny elaborated, “Indeed, the incidents occurred some time ago. The perpetrator had sought forgiveness and pledged not to repeat his actions, yet in 2025, it happened again,” highlighting a disturbing pattern of repeated misconduct.
As of the time of this report, the legal proceedings continue actively at Bareskrim Polri. The legal counsel remains steadfast in their hope that justice will be swiftly delivered for the victims, who have endured profound trauma as a result of SAM‘s alleged actions. This ongoing investigation underscores the urgent need for accountability and protection for vulnerable individuals within religious institutions.
Summary
A prominent religious figure and judge on a TV Quran memorization show, identified as Ustaz SAM, is under investigation for alleged sexual abuse. He is accused of committing indecent acts against five underage male students at an Islamic boarding school. The victims’ legal team has been actively monitoring the report, which was filed five months ago.
The case, involving victims identified by initials, has now officially escalated to the investigation stage at Bareskrim Polri’s Women and Children’s Service Unit. Crucial evidence, including chat logs and videos, has been submitted to support the allegations, which reportedly occurred from 2017 up to 2025. The perpetrator allegedly re-offended multiple times despite offering apologies.