Yogyakarta, Indonesia – A local court in Yogyakarta started a trial on Tuesday for eleven employees of the Little Aresha daycare center. The staff members face charges of child neglect and abuse after police raided the facility in late April and discovered dozens of children, ages two to six, with their hands and feet bound together, some even tied to doors.

Parents attend hearing

The courtroom was filled with the victims’ parents, many wearing pins that read, “We fight for our kids.” Prosecutors, speaking in a live‑streamed hearing, said the caregivers failed to provide proper food, tied children’s legs with rope as punishment, and caused emotional distress and sleep disorders.

Scope of the alleged abuse

Authorities say the case involves 144 child victims. Imedia Dwi Anjani, a 38‑year‑old representative for the parents, told the court that many of the children remain fearful of new people and display aggression. “My hope is that those who have been named suspects can get the maximum punishment,” he said.

Legal context

Yogyakarta police have identified 32 people as suspects in the investigation. Convictions for child abuse and neglect in Indonesia can carry up to five years in prison and a fine of up to 100 million rupiah (about $5,600). The trial marks the first major court proceeding in what children’s‑rights advocates describe as one of the most significant abuse scandals in recent Indonesian history.

Broader background

Daycare centers are a relatively new concept in Indonesia, where children have traditionally been cared for by extended family members. The case has drawn front‑page headlines across the country and prompted calls for stricter oversight of early‑childhood facilities.

Reuters was unable to reach the defendants’ legal representatives for comment.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.