Abdul Khalim Fadlun arrested in Pekalongan religious school abuse case

Police in Pekalongan detained Abdul Khalim Fadlun, the 54‑year‑old head of Padepokan Padang Ati in Buaran, after accusations that he sexually abused dozens of female santri. The investigation, launched in late May 2026, identified at least 25 victims aged 17‑33, some of whom were reported to be pregnant. Evidence presented included witness testimony, expert statements and clothing worn by the victims, leading investigators to name Fadlun a suspect and order a 20‑day detention.

The alleged abuse spanned from 2008 to 2025, with victims describing verbal intimidation, unwanted touching, kissing and forced sexual acts. Following the arrest, parents collected their children from the facility; roughly 350 santri were relocated, with 38 remaining in formal madrasah programmes and two housed with local teachers.

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs clarified that the institution is a "padepokan," not a legally registered pesantren, and lacks an operational permit. The ministry pledged to monitor the situation, ensure the continued education of the affected santri, and coordinate with nearby madrasahs and pesantren for relocation. It also called for the closure of the unregistered facility and for psychological support for the victims.