BANDA ACEH – Authorities in Banda Aceh have shut down an illegal daycare following the circulation of a viral video that allegedly shows the abuse of a toddler, intensifying concerns over child safety and the regulation of childcare facilities in the city.
The facility, identified as Baby Preneur Daycare in the Lamgugob area, was sealed by the Banda Aceh municipal government on Wednesday (April 29, 2026). Officials confirmed that the daycare had been operating without an official permit, classifying it as an illegal daycare in Banda Aceh.
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Deputy Mayor Afdhal Khalilullah stated that the closure was carried out after authorities found multiple violations, including the absence of proper licensing. He stressed that the city administration would not grant any future permits to the same operator and would strengthen oversight of childcare services across the region.
“We will take firm action against any unlicensed daycare in Banda Aceh. Child safety is a top priority, and facilities must comply with all regulations,” he said.
Police Name Caregiver as Suspect
The case has led to a criminal investigation, with police naming a 24-year-old caregiver, identified as DS, as a suspect in the alleged abuse. The decision followed a case review conducted by the Banda Aceh Police Criminal Investigation Unit.
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Head of the unit, Commissioner Miftahuda Dizha Fezuono, said the investigation is ongoing and may expand to include additional suspects.
“At this stage, we have identified one suspect, but we are continuing to gather evidence and examine witnesses,” he said.
The suspect has been charged under Indonesia’s Child Protection Law, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of up to Rp72 million. Police have questioned at least six individuals, including daycare staff and management.
Viral CCTV Footage Sparks Outrage
The case gained widespread attention after CCTV footage began circulating on social media, showing what appears to be the abuse of an 18-month-old child inside the daycare facility.
In the video, the toddler is allegedly handled roughly during feeding, with actions that include forceful movements and pulling of the child’s ear. Authorities believe the abuse may have occurred more than once, based on preliminary findings.
The viral daycare video has triggered public outrage and renewed scrutiny of childcare standards, particularly in facilities operating without legal oversight.
Government Tightens Oversight of Childcare Facilities
Following the incident, the Banda Aceh government has moved to provide psychological support and assistance to the victim and their family. Officials also confirmed that around 30 children were affected by the closure of the daycare.
The case has prompted the city to accelerate efforts to regulate unlicensed daycare in Indonesia, particularly at the local level. Authorities plan to conduct inspections and enforce stricter licensing requirements to prevent similar incidents.
Currently, only a limited number of daycare centers in Banda Aceh are officially registered and licensed. The government is urging parents to ensure that childcare providers meet legal and safety standards before enrolling their children.
Child protection advocates have welcomed the crackdown but stress that long-term solutions are needed. They emphasize that improving caregiver training, increasing supervision, and enforcing strict regulations are essential steps to prevent future childcare abuse cases.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by illegal daycare operations and underscores the importance of accountability in safeguarding children’s welfare.
