Background of the Case
Mochamad Subchi Azal Tsani, known as Bechi, taught at his father’s prominent Islamic boarding school in Jombang, East Java. Convicted in 2022 of sexually assaulting a female student, he received a seven‑year prison sentence. The charges were reduced after prosecutors sought a longer term but were acquitted of rape allegations.
BBC Investigation Reveals Secret Parole
Undercover BBC reporters captured footage of Bechi smiling at an event in March 2025 – a time when he should still have been incarcerated. The investigation found that he had been granted parole in August 2025, serving less than half of his sentence, without informing the victim.
Public Outcry and Parliamentary Hearing
The revelation sparked widespread condemnation. Parliament convened a hearing to examine irregularities in the handling of sexual abuse cases within religious and educational institutions. Victim advocacy groups, including lawyer Joko Jumadi, accused authorities of hesitancy to investigate abuses linked to influential religious figures.
Return to Prison and Official Response
Following the review triggered by the BBC, officials described the parole as an error. Bechi was immediately sent back to prison. Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto stated that those who approved the parole would face sanctions and vowed to prevent future mistakes.
Victim Testimony
One anonymous former student expressed relief at Bechi’s incarceration, demanding justice for all survivors. Another, Ira Puspitasari, who had been abused for four years, praised the government’s attention as a vindication. She recounted instances of enforced silence, intimidation, and the disbelief of officers hearing her revelations.
Broader Implications
The case underscores systemic failures in regulating sexual misconduct within religious schools and illustrates the need for transparent parole processes. It also highlights the power of investigative journalism in holding authorities accountable and protecting vulnerable students.
