Jakarta, ThedailyID — Military Police arrested Sertu MB, a member of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, after he allegedly sexually abused an elementary school student in Kendari.
Authorities had previously listed the soldier as a fugitive after he fled during an initial military investigation.
Commander of Denpom XIV/3 Kendari, Lt. Col. CPM Haryadi Budaya Pela, said officers captured Sertu MB on Tuesday while he hid at a relative’s house in Bone Regency, South Sulawesi.
“The suspect stayed at his cousin’s house. After the arrest, he admitted his actions,” Haryadi told reporters on Wednesday.
According to investigators, Sertu MB escaped after asking permission to eat during questioning by military intelligence officers at Kodim 1417 Kendari.
Haryadi said the suspect later admitted he panicked during interrogation because he felt guilty about the alleged crime.
Authorities charged Sertu MB under Article 414 of Indonesia’s 2023 Criminal Code related to sexual violence against minors. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
Haryadi also confirmed that military courts would handle the case because the suspect remains an active-duty soldier.
After the arrest, officers transferred Sertu MB to the Military Detention Center at Kodam XIV Hasanuddin for further detention and investigation.
Earlier reports stated that the elementary school student who became the alleged victim suffered severe depression following the incident.
Officials have not publicly revealed the victim’s identity or age to protect the child’s privacy.
