Jakarta – Indonesia’s National Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim Polri) is investigating allegations of sexual assault made against a former head coach of the national rock climbing team, identified only by the initials HB. The allegations involve multiple female athletes and center around claims of abuse of power.
According to Brigadier General Nurul Azizah, Director of Special Criminal Investigation for Women and Children and Trafficking in Persons at Bareskrim Polri, a police report was filed on March 3, 2026, under the number LP/B/101/III/2026/SPKT/Bareskrim Polri. The report details accusations that HB exploited his position and the vulnerability of the athletes to commit indecent acts, including alleged sexual intercourse.
“The alleged modus operandi involves abusing authority and taking advantage of the vulnerability of the female athletes to commit indecent acts up to and including sexual intercourse,” Brigadier General Azizah stated on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
HB is no longer the head coach of the national rock climbing team, having been dismissed by the Indonesian Climbing Federation (FPTI). The alleged incidents reportedly occurred between 2021 and 2025, primarily at the Athlete Dormitory in Bekasi, located at Jalan Harapan Indah Boulevard No.10–12, Medan Satria, Bekasi Utara, and during international competitions.
The report was filed by an attorney, SD, representing the victims, who are all female members of the national rock climbing team. Investigators have already begun taking statements and collecting evidence.
On March 6, 2026, investigators clarified details with the reporting attorney, SD, and one of the athletes, identified as PJ. Investigators facilitated a visum et repertum (medical examination) for the athlete at the RS Polri Kramat Jati hospital. Further statements were taken on March 9th from four additional athletes – RS, PL, KA, NA, and AV – with requests also made for visum et repertum and psychiatric evaluations at the same hospital.
Evidence collected so far includes an initial report of alleged sexual harassment from the Indonesian Climbing Federation dated February 14, 2026, a decision from the FPTI regarding the 2025 national training camp, and identity documents and WhatsApp conversations between the female athletes and the accused.
Preliminary investigations suggest HB allegedly used his position to gain access to the athletes. According to Brigadier General Azizah, the alleged actions included “abusing his authority as head coach of the national training camp by exploiting the vulnerability of the female athletes, then committing indecent acts such as hugging, kissing, touching, and masturbation and sexual intercourse.”
Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and deepen their investigation. HB is currently facing charges under Article 6 letters B and C of Law Number 12 of 2022 concerning Criminal Acts of Sexual Violence, in conjunction with Article 15 of the same law, which carries a potential prison sentence of up to 12 years and a fine of up to Rp 300 million.
This case marks a significant moment for athlete safety and accountability within Indonesian sports. The allegations highlight the potential for abuse of power within national training programs and the importance of robust reporting mechanisms and swift investigation by law enforcement. The focus now shifts to supporting the athletes involved and ensuring a thorough and just legal process.
The investigation is ongoing, and Bareskrim Polri has not released a timeline for its completion. However, the swift action taken thus far demonstrates a commitment to addressing these serious allegations and protecting athletes from harm. The outcome of this case will likely set a precedent for handling similar situations in the future, emphasizing the need for a safe and respectful environment for all athletes in Indonesia.
Archysport will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available. The next step in the investigation is expected to be further interviews with witnesses and the analysis of collected evidence.
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