A seven-year-old elementary school student in Pemalang, Central Java, named M or Muhammad Hasbi Al Aqib, died on September 30, 2026, after allegedly suffering physical abuse and bullying by three older students during a school break. The victim, described by his cousin Yani as a shy, independent, and quiet child who was enthusiastic about attending school, had reportedly been identified by his father, Nurwandi, as having pointed out the suspects in photos before he died.
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What Happened at SDN 1 Kebondalem
According to the victim’s mother, Diah Indrianti, the abuse came to light on September 17, 2026, when family members took the second-grade student to a doctor after he complained of severe stomach pain and was unable to walk. Diah stated that doctors ruled out existing illnesses or dietary causes, identifying indications of physical impact to the stomach that required immediate emergency room care at RSUD Dr Azhari in Pemalang. Diah noted that M had blue bruises on his stomach and legs, and complained of pain when being lifted.
Before his condition deteriorated, M told his family and attending medical staff that he had been accosted and struck by three older students—two in fifth grade and one in sixth grade—near the school’s assembly hall after visiting the canteen for extortion money. Diah noted that her son spent nine days hospitalized, briefly returned home following intensive care, but suffered a fatal relapse on September 30, 2026, while being transported back to the hospital. Reports to the Child Protection Commission (KPAI) suggest the bullying occurred on September 11, 2026, because M refused to give money to two of the suspects, who then reacted with emotion and physical assault.
Police Investigation and Official Responses
Kasat Reskrim Polres Pemalang AKP Wildan Umar stated that investigators had already interviewed six individuals, including classmates, school staff, and the victim's parents. Wildan also dismissed autopsy results circulating on social media as untrue. Meanwhile, Plt Bupati Pemalang Nurkholes visited the victim's family and the school on October 1, 2026, confirming that reports indicated a dispute between the students preceded the physical strikes. Nurkholes added that the request to remove the principal is still under evaluation.
School principal Erning Rustini declined to comment extensively when contacted, stating that all matters had been handed over to the police. A teacher, Untung Bejo, claimed that learning activities remained conducive despite protests and stated that the school strictly forbids bullying.
Residents protest at school demanding head teacher removal
Family members expressed sharp frustration regarding the school’s handling of the incident. Nurwandi stated he sought clarity from the school without result. On October 5, 2026, hundreds of local residents and parents staged a demonstration at SDN 1 Kebondalem demanding the removal of the head teacher and strict punishment for those responsible. Among them was Atika, a parent of a third-grade student, who alleged her own child had previously suffered bullying that caused fever and urinary issues.
Ombudsman RI Central Java Representative Farida stated that the incident points to potential maladministration involving supervisory negligence and a failure of child protection systems within the formal school environment. Farida urged the Acting Regent of Pemalang to impose strict sanctions if neglect is proven and called for the activation of a Prevention and Handling Team. Deputy Chairman of Commission X of the House of Representatives (DPR) Lalu Hadrian Irfani expressed concern over the ongoing surge of violence in educational institutions, urging all education stakeholders to implement strong preventive measures and stringent oversight.
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Answers regarding the victim death and school altercation
When did the victim pass away?
M passed away on September 30, 2026, after his condition deteriorated while being transported back to the hospital following a previous nine-day period of intensive medical treatment.
What prompted the altercation between the students?
According to information gathered by the victim’s family from classmates, the incident began when older students confronted M near the school canteen to extort money.
What actions have local authorities taken regarding the school staff?
Police have interviewed six individuals including teachers and the school principal, while the local Ombudsman and regional officials have evaluated potential institutional negligence and supervisory failures.
How can educational institutions better protect students from bullying during school breaks, and will the local government follow through with the removal of the school principal?
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