Climbing Coach Accused of Sexual Abuse: Police Investigate Allegations Against Former National Team Head

Jakarta – Indonesian authorities are investigating allegations of sexual misconduct against Hendra Basir (HB), the former head coach of the national rock climbing team, involving multiple female athletes. The investigation, led by the National Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim), centers on accusations of abuse of power and exploitation of athletes between 2021 and 2025.

Brigjen Nurul Azizah, Director of Criminal Investigation for Women and Children Protection and Trafficking in Persons at Bareskrim Polri, confirmed the receipt of a report registered under the number LP/B/101/III/2026/SPKT/Bareskrim Polri on March 3, 2026. “The alleged modus operandi involves abusing authority and exploiting the vulnerability of female athletes to commit indecent acts, including sexual intercourse,” Azizah stated on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.

The allegations surfaced following reports from six athletes – identified by their initials PJ, RS, PL, KA, NA, and AV – who were accompanied by their legal counsel, SD. Investigators have already conducted preliminary interviews with the reporting parties and are in the process of gathering further evidence.

According to investigators, the alleged incidents occurred primarily at the Athlete Dormitory in Bekasi, as well as during international competitions. The timeframe of the alleged abuse spans from 2021 to 2025, raising questions about the oversight and safeguarding measures in place during that period.

Hendra Basir has since been removed from his position by the Indonesian Rock Climbing Federation (FPTI). The federation is cooperating with the investigation and has provided initial reports of the alleged misconduct to Bareskrim.

So far, investigators have secured visum et repertum (medical examination reports) for athlete PJ at the Kramat Jati Police Hospital. Requests for similar examinations, including psychiatric evaluations, have been issued for the remaining athletes involved. This indicates a thorough approach to documenting potential physical and psychological harm suffered by the alleged victims.

The investigation suggests that Basir allegedly leveraged his position of authority to gain undue influence over the athletes. Azizah explained that the alleged actions involved indecent acts, indicating a pattern of predatory behavior.

The FPTI is currently providing psychological and legal support to the athletes involved. Authorities have similarly seized evidence, including initial reports of sexual harassment from the FPTI, as well as identity documents and WhatsApp conversations between the athletes and Basir. These materials will be crucial in building a case against the former coach.

Basir could face up to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to 300 million Indonesian Rupiah if convicted. He is being investigated under articles 6 letters B and C of Law Number 12 of 2022 concerning Criminal Acts of Sexual Violence, in conjunction with Article 15 of the same law.

This case marks a significant moment for Indonesian sport, highlighting the need for robust safeguarding policies and a zero-tolerance approach to sexual misconduct. The swift action taken by Bareskrim Polri demonstrates a commitment to protecting athletes and holding perpetrators accountable. The outcome of this investigation will likely have far-reaching implications for the FPTI and the broader sporting community in Indonesia, prompting a reevaluation of athlete welfare and coaching ethics.

The allegations arrive at a sensitive time for Indonesian rock climbing, a sport that has seen increasing success on the international stage. The focus now shifts to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all athletes, allowing them to pursue their sporting dreams without fear of abuse or exploitation.