Schools operated by the Harapan Ibu Islamic School Foundation in South Jakarta transitioned to remote learning for one week following the police discovery of nearly 1,000 airsoft guns and other weapons on the foundation premises, according to foundation officials and legal representatives.
Investigation and Weapons Recovery at South Jakarta Foundation
South Jakarta Police recovered 995 airsoft guns, four air rifles, one Francispa-brand firearm, and four unidentified long-gun barrels from the property. Officers also found two rolled cigarettes suspected of containing marijuana and one package suspected of containing methamphetamine. The weapons were located in a room previously used by the foundation’s former chairman, identified by the initials IWD, who was dismissed previously during an internal dispute over allegations of fund misuse.
Foundation lawyer Hermawanto stated on Sunday that shifting classes online was necessary to protect student safety while enabling police to inspect and secure the site. “The school will implement remote learning for one week to ensure the safety and security of students,” Hermawanto said. Officials remain concerned because several rooms are still locked and sealed with police lines. “There are still locked rooms, and we don’t know what’s inside them,” Hermawanto added.
Did You Know? South Jakarta Police recovered a total of 995 airsoft guns, four air rifles, one Francispa-brand firearm, four unidentified long-gun barrels, two suspected marijuana cigarettes, and one suspected methamphetamine package from the premises.
Parent Concerns and Ministerial Response
Another foundation lawyer, Alvon Kurnia Palma, noted that parents requested the temporary remote learning setup while police examine areas that may contain prohibited or dangerous items. “The purpose is to make sure the children can continue learning safely,” Alvon said. He urged authorities to thoroughly clear the property before normal classes resume. “We strongly encourage the police to immediately secure and clear the areas whose contents remain unknown,” he stated.
Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Arifatul Fauzi urged the public to protect student privacy and avoid stigmatizing pupils due to the ongoing investigation. “Children must not become victims of problems for which they bear no responsibility. Let us protect their privacy and psychological well-being so they can continue learning comfortably,” Arifatul said in Jakarta on Sunday. She also called for comprehensive facility inspections and stronger safety measures while respecting the legal process.
Timeline and Regulatory Examination Status
Authorities have not yet released results from examinations intended to establish the legal status and ownership of the recovered weapons. Laboratory tests confirming the exact contents of the suspected narcotics have also not been formally announced by police. As the one-week remote learning period progresses, the foundation is likely to await full clearance from law enforcement before permitting students to return to campus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Harapan Ibu Islamic School Foundation shift to online classes?
The foundation moved classes online for one week to ensure student safety and give police unhindered access to inspect and secure the premises following the discovery of weapons.
Who previously used the room where the weapons were found?
The weapons were discovered in a room used by the foundation’s former chairman, identified by the initials IWD, who was dismissed following allegations of misusing foundation funds.
What items were recovered by law enforcement at the site?
Police secured 995 airsoft guns, four air rifles, one Francispa-brand firearm, four unidentified long-gun barrels, two suspected marijuana cigarettes, and one package suspected of containing methamphetamine.
How will the completion of the police investigation impact the resumption of in-person classes at the foundation?
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