Maluku Province Reported the Highest Number of Rape and Sexual Abuse Cases in 2020

Cases of crimes against decency, including rape and molestation, remain rampant in Indonesia. Based on reports from Regional Police Offices/Provinces cited in the "2021 Criminal Statistics," these crimes increased by 31% to 6,872 cases in 2020 compared to the previous year.

Based on region, Maluku dominated the number of reported rape and molestation cases in 2020, with 1,398 cases, representing 20.34% of the total cases nationwide.

North Sumatra ranked second with a total of 774 rape and molestation cases in 2020. West Java and Central Java followed with 371 and 349 cases respectively.

A total of 294 rape and molestation cases occurred in West Sumatra. East Java, Lampung, and North Sulawesi each recorded 256, 247, and 242 cases respectively.

Meanwhile, the lowest number of rape and molestation cases occurred in North Kalimantan, with only 32 cases.

Furthermore, the 2020 Record of Violence Against Women (CATAHU) indicates that the majority of sexual violence in public spaces is perpetrated by acquaintances. Some reports also indicate perpetrators included neighbors, strangers, and even teachers/religious figures.

The high number of rape and molestation cases requires attention. Therefore, sex education from an early age is crucial to enable the public, especially children, to protect themselves from various forms of sexual violence.