Inp.polri.go.id - Kendari. Southeast Sulawesi Regional Police arrested nine men suspected of involvement in a group assault and vandalism at the Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur’an(MTQ) complex in Kendari, a venue commonly used for Qur’an recitation events. 

The incident, which went viral on social media, left victims injured and vehicles damaged.

“We are examining nine suspects to determine their roles. One of them, identified as AH, is a repeat offender in assault cases,” said Southeast Sulawesi Police Director of Criminal Investigation Director Senior Superintendent Wisnu Wibowo on Thursday (5/6/2026).

Police traced the suspects to an abandoned house near the scene. The first suspect, identified AT, was detained during the initial pursuit, followed by seven others later the same day. Investigators continue to search for additional perpetrators and urge those still at large to surrender.

Authorities called on the public to report any information to help maintain security and order in Kendari.

(mg/ax/pr/rs)