A Muslim group reportedly forced a church in Tangerang, Indonesia, to stop its Sunday worship service and suspend all future gatherings due to a lack of official permits.
The confrontation took place on 21st September 2025 at the Indonesian Bethel Church (GBI), which meets in a commercial shophouse in Gerendeng Pulo village, Karawaci District.
“There should be no religious activities here,” an elderly Muslim man told Pastor Melky Gerung, as shown in video footage. A police officer present urged mediation “to maintain social peace in Tangerang city".
A group of at least 20 people arrived an hour before the 10am service and demanded a halt to all activities until the church could obtain the required documentation, Morning Star News reports.
According to Pastor Melky, he locked the gate and called police after fearing for the congregation’s safety. Plainclothes officers were reportedly already nearby following a similar incident the previous week.
Authorities later brought both parties to the local police station for discussion.
On 22nd September 2025, church leaders met with the Karawaci Police Chief and the Interreligious Harmony Forum (FKUB), who referenced letters of objection from neighbourhood units 02 and 05.
A source said that the church had previously secured support from 20 residents and the Mosque Prosperity Council.
Edy Suhardono, a researcher and university lecturer, revealed that the incident highlights a broader “regulatory failure” that leaves minority worship communities vulnerable under current permit laws.