Surabaya Police Raid Alleged Same-Sex Party, Arrest 34 Men
A police operation in Surabaya, Indonesia, on saturday, October 18, 2025, resulted in the arrest of 34 men suspected of participating in a same-sex party at a hotel in the Ngagel area. The raid has sparked scrutiny regarding privacy and law enforcement practices.
Authorities acted on reports from the public concerning unusual activity at the hotel. According to a statement released Sunday, October 19, 2025, officers from the Wonokromo Police and the Surabaya Police Criminal Examination Unit executed the raid, securing the location and detaining all individuals present.
Initial reports indicate a chaotic scene upon entry, with dozens of men reportedly panicking, and some found without clothing. “Wonokromo Police and the Surabaya Police Criminal Investigation Unit secured a same-sex sex party in a hotel room in Surabaya. In total there were 34 people,” a senior official stated.
The investigation extends beyond Surabaya, as authorities have determined that not all those arrested are local residents. individuals from Bandung, malang, and Sidoarjo were among those detained, suggesting the gathering was organized through social media platforms. Investigators are currently tracing connections and communication patterns to understand the full scope of the event.
A key focus of the investigation is the alleged practice of same-sex prostitution. The Women and Child Protection Unit (PPA) of the Surabaya Police Criminal Investigation Unit is handling one of those involved,and authorities are collecting evidence and facts to support potential charges. The hotel itself may be asked to provide information related to the event.
Adding to the complexity of the case, authorities are investigating whether one of the participants is a state civil servant (ASN). The involvement of a government employee could lead to additional charges and scrutiny.
As of Sunday evening,examinations of all 34 individuals were ongoing. “This is still under investigation. After everything is finished, we will report it,” explained Inspector Oktavianus Edi Mamoto, Head of the PPA Unit.
this incident raises questions about the enforcement of social norms and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Indonesia, where same-sex relations are not explicitly criminalized nationally but face notable social stigma and are illegal in some regions. The investigation is expected to continue as authorities gather further evidence and determine the appropriate course of action.
This article was originally published on Surya.co.id with the title “Chronology of cross-city gay party at hotel in Surabaya raided by police.”
Why did this happen? The Surabaya Police raided a hotel in the Ngagel area on Saturday, October 18, 2025, following reports from the public regarding unusual activity. Authorities suspected a same-sex party was taking place.
Who was involved? thirty-four men were arrested, including individuals from Surabaya, Bandung, Malang, and Sidoarjo. Police are also investigating whether a state civil servant (ASN) was among those detained. The Women and Child Protection Unit (PPA) is handling a portion of the investigation related to alleged prostitution.
What occurred? Police secured a hotel room where a same-sex party was reportedly in progress. Initial reports describe a chaotic scene with individuals found in various states of undress. Authorities are investigating potential violations related to same-sex activity and possible prostitution.
How did it end? As of Sunday evening, October 19, 2025, examinations of all 34 individuals were ongoing. The investigation remains open, with authorities tracing connections, gathering evidence, and determining potential charges. A final report is pending.
