13/11/2025
Jenar, Sragen Residents Catch Burglar of Donation Box from Grave!
A man's reckless act of stealing money from a donation box in the Bago Hamlet public cemetery, Ngepringan Village, Jenar District, Sragen, ended tragically.
Before he could enjoy his loot, the perpetrator was apprehended by residents after being caught on CCTV and chased by a mob.
Jenar Police Chief, AKP Widarto, in a statement representing Sragen Police Chief, AKBP Dewiana Syamsu Indyasari, emphasized that the perpetrator's actions were reprehensible and violated public moral values.
"This act is truly concerning. Stealing from a sacred place like a cemetery, let alone taking donation money that should be used for social purposes. We will prosecute the perpetrator according to the law," said AKP Widarto.
The incident occurred early Thursday morning (November 13, 2025) at around 2:00 a.m. Western Indonesian Time.
A resident, Riyanto (39), received a notification from a CCTV camera installed in the cemetery area, showing suspicious activity. Riyanto immediately contacted his colleague, Eka Saputra (25), and the two headed to the location.
Sure enough, they found a man leaving the cemetery area carrying something. When shouted "thief!", the perpetrator fled on a Honda Beat motorcycle with license plate number AA 3585 JG.
However, his attempts to escape were in vain. Residents who heard his screams immediately helped surround the exit until the perpetrator was arrested in Bago Hamlet, Ngepringan Village.
The perpetrator was identified as Wibbi (30), a resident of Plumbungan Village, Karangmalang District, Sragen. From him, officers seized Rp72,300 in stolen cash, a tire wrench used to pry open donation boxes, and a Honda Beat motorcycle used as a means of committing the crime.
The perpetrator admitted to committing the theft because he wanted to make money quickly and easily. He is currently being charged under Article 364 of the Criminal Code for petty theft and is undergoing intensive questioning at the Jenar Police Station.
AKP Widarto emphasized that the police will take firm action against any crime, no matter how small, that disturbs the community.
"We appreciate the active role of Jenar residents who promptly reported this incident. Synergy between the community and the police is key to our shared security," he said.
This case serves as a reminder to the public to remain vigilant and raise awareness about safeguarding public facilities, including donation boxes, which are a symbol of sincerity and shared good deeds.
