Bandung kidnapping victim YTR sparks national outcry and government response

A woman identified as YTR was allegedly kidnapped and subjected to severe physical abuse in Bandung, West Java. The perpetrator, identified as Taufik Hidayat (initials TH), has been arrested by Polda Jawa Barat. Police investigations have now uncovered two additional locations used in the alleged torture, bringing the total to six sites, and are awaiting a psychological assessment of the suspect.

YTR suffered extensive injuries to her eyes, lips, nose, ears, feet and head, leaving her unable to flee or call for help. She remains in intensive care at Hasan Sadikin Hospital, with her wounds gradually healing. Her family, speaking on social media, explained that her physical condition prevented any attempt to escape.

The National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) issued an apology for earlier statements and reaffirmed its commitment to support YTR and her family, emphasizing that the abuse constitutes extreme gender‑based violence. The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, led by Minister Arifah Fauzi, urged the public not to judge the victim, to stop sharing related content, and pledged ongoing psychological, medical and social assistance until full recovery. The ministry also called for the maximum legal penalty for the perpetrator.