A peaceful Christian youth retreat in West Java, Indonesia, turned chaotic when a mob of approximately 200 Muslim residents stormed the venue, disrupted the event, and vandalized the property. The incident took place between June 27 and June 30, 2025, in Kampung Tangki, located in the Sukabumi Regency. The retreat was attended by 36 Protestant Christian students who had gathered for spiritual activities in a private residence owned by a woman named Maria Veronica Ninna.
Eyewitness accounts and video footage revealed that the mob, many of them wearing skull caps, entered the compound shouting and demanding that the youth vacate the premises immediately. As the young participants fled in panic, the mob proceeded to damage property, including breaking windows, smashing flower pots, tearing apart gazebos, and throwing a motorcycle into a nearby river. The atmosphere was tense and frightening for the teenagers, many of whom were visibly distressed.
Security personnel, including local police officers and soldiers, were present during the event but initially failed to prevent the mob from carrying out the destruction. In response to the escalating threat, authorities evacuated the young attendees from the site to a safer location. They were later transported away in vehicles under police escort to ensure their safety.
Following public outrage and formal complaints, law enforcement officials launched an investigation into the attack. On June 30, authorities arrested seven individuals believed to be involved in the raid. The suspects are now facing charges related to vandalism and disrupting a religious gathering. The homeowner’s family, particularly Yohanes Wendy, Maria’s brother, filed the complaint and confirmed the extensive damage to their property.
The attackers reportedly justified their actions by claiming that the retreat was being held in an unauthorized venue and disrupted local harmony. They argued that religious gatherings of this nature required official permits, and their absence constituted a violation of communal regulations. However, church groups and civil society organizations condemned the mob’s actions, asserting that the youth had a right to worship peacefully in private spaces.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about religious intolerance and the state of minority rights in Indonesia. Although Indonesia officially recognizes religious freedom, tensions surrounding unregistered places of worship and informal gatherings continue to ignite controversy and conflict in several regions. This latest incident underscores the ongoing challenges Christian communities face in practicing their faith without fear of hostility or violence.
