Several Christian-Catholic graves in Bantul Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY), were desecrated in mid-May, marking yet another act of vandalism against minority religious communities in Indonesia.
The incident occurred at a public cemetery (TPU) in Ngentak Village, Baturetno, Banguntapan Subdistrict, where gravestones, crosses, and other religious markers were deliberately damaged. At least 10 graves were reported seriously affected.
Authorities quickly responded, apprehending a teenage suspect. However, police have yet to disclose details about the individual’s identity or motive.
The latest attack came to light after Mrs. Isabela, 47, visited the grave of the late Mr. Sugiman on May 14 and found the gravestone vandalized. Similar incidents have also been reported at TPU Jaranan in Sewon Subdistrict, also within Bantul Regency.
These acts have reignited concern about a broader pattern of religious intolerance in the region. In recent years, Christian and Catholic graves across Java have repeatedly been targeted:
- In May 2025, five graves were desecrated at TPU Baluwarti in Kembang Basen Village, Purbayan, Kotagede Subdistrict.
- In December 2018, a cross was removed from a Catholic grave in Purbayan after local Muslim residents objected to Christian symbols. At the time, Village Chief Mr. Bedjo said, “The decision to remove the cross was unanimously agreed upon by the Muslim majority.”
- In April 2019, crosses at TPU Bethesda Mrican in Yogyakarta City were defaced and set on fire.
- In December 2019, 12 Christian graves were vandalized at TPU Giriloyo in Central Java, just a day before Christmas.
- In September 2022, Christian graves were desecrated at the Kamboja Public Cemetery in Depok City, Bogor Regency, West Java.
- In June 2021, following similar vandalism at TPU Cemoro Kembar in Surakarta’s Pasar Kliwon Subdistrict, then-Mayor Gibran Rakabuming Raka parked his car at the cemetery in a symbolic gesture of protection. Gibran, now Indonesia’s Vice President and the eldest son of former President Joko Widodo, was praised for his public stance against religious intolerance.
The repeated attacks have prompted a strong response from regional leaders. DIY Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X said on Sunday, “Let me be clear: this case must be thoroughly investigated by local authorities,” while acknowledging that the motive remains unknown.
The repeated incidents of grave desecration have raised concerns among community members and civil society groups about the need for effective measures to prevent similar acts and address underlying tensions.
