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Jailed teacher convicted of sexual abuse secretly released early in Indonesia, BBC finds
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- Moch Subchi Azal Tsani, an Indonesian teacher convicted of sexually assaulting a student at an Islamic boarding school, was secretly released from prison early, after serving less than half of his seven-year sentence.
- The teacher, known as Bechi and son of an influential Islamic leader, was arrested in 2022 following a siege at his father's school in East Java, where there were attempts to prevent his arrest by supporters.
- Further allegations of abuse have emerged, with evidence suggesting the school and family tried to suppress claims, while victims were not informed of Bechi’s early release despite legal requirements.
- The National Commission on Violence against Women has declared an "emergency" of sexual violence in Islamic boarding schools, citing the unchecked power of religious leaders and inadequate protection for students.
- Victims and witnesses expressed distress and fear after Bechi’s release, highlighting ongoing intimidation and a lack of justice, while calls grow for stronger government oversight and penalties to prevent abuse in religious institutions.
