Victim of Bovensmilde School Kidnapping Claims..Hopeful..Support is Our Greatest Victory

On September 22, 2025, Cor Udding, a survivor of the 1977 school hostage crisis in Bovensmilde, expressed relief that the suffering of the 105 children involved is finally being acknowledged. He described the release of a report as a significant victory, though he noted that 30 to 35 children from that time are still struggling and did not participate in the report. Udding hopes this group can regain trust in the government.

Udding has advocated for recognition of the children’s suffering since 2020. The school was taken hostage for 20 days by South Moluccan youths, with children and one teacher released after four days due to illness. Four other teachers were freed after 20 days when marines intervened. Udding recalled that children were told by the mayor to view the incident as a canceled school trip, affecting how they processed their trauma.

Many survivors, including Udding, struggled in secondary education. He noted that many young girls, aged 7 to 12 during the crisis, faced severe challenges. Cultural expectations added pressure, as they were required to maintain strict hygiene under the watch of armed captors. Many of these girls left school early, married young, and faced hardships, leading to reliance on social assistance.

• The report highlights the need for further assistance for the most affected survivors.
• Cor Udding continues to advocate for the group that did not participate in the report.
• The government aims to implement changes despite its current transitional status.
• Survivors are encouraged to seek support as recognition grows.

As the government takes steps to address these issues, Udding’s advocacy may lead to more comprehensive support for all survivors.

Next steps include monitoring government actions and ensuring that all affected individuals receive the help they need.