A Muslim group reportedly forced a church in Tangerang, Indonesia, to halt its Sunday worship service and suspend all future gatherings due to a lack of official permits.

The confrontation took place on September 21, 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, according to video footage. A police officer present urged mediation “to maintain social peace in Tangerang city.”

At least 20 people arrived an hour before the 10 a.m. service and demanded a stop to all activities until the church obtained the required documentation, Morning Star News reported.

Pastor Melky said 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 discussions.

On September 22, church leaders met with the Karawaci Police Chief and the Interreligious Harmony Forum (FKUB), who cited letters of objection from neighborhood units 02 and 05.

A source said the church had previously secured support from 20 residents and the Mosque Prosperity Council.

Edy Suhardono, a researcher and university lecturer, said the case underscores a broader “regulatory failure” that leaves minority worship communities vulnerable under current permit laws.