Imam Muslimin, a former lecturer at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim and a suspect in a pornography and sexual abuse case, has died although in police custody. The death of the man, commonly known as Yai Mim, has led authorities to halt the legal proceedings against him.
According to AKP Rakhmat Aji, Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit at the Malang City Police, Yai Mim passed away at the Polresta Malang Kota station on Monday, April 13, 2026. Police officials have since confirmed that there were no signs of violence involved in his death, though they noted the presence of asphyxia markers.
The unexpected passing of the academic has drawn significant attention, as the case against him involved serious allegations of sexual misconduct. This development brings an abrupt complete to the judicial process, as criminal proceedings in Indonesia typically cease upon the death of the defendant.
Reports indicate that while in custody, Yai Mim had been placed in a separate cell. This arrangement was reportedly made because he frequently conducted religious lectures, or tausiyah, for other inmates.
Following his death, Yai Mim’s remains were transported to his hometown in Blitar for burial. His niece, Fatimatuz Zahro, stated that the body arrived at the home of his eldest brother in Udanawu around 8:30 p.m. On April 13, 2026, accompanied by family members and an ambulance. The arrival was met by hundreds of mourners who had gathered after receiving the sudden news.
After being washed and prayed over by family members, Yai Mim was interred around 10:00 p.m. That same night. He was buried at the TPU in Dusun Wonorejo, Slemanan Village, Udanawu District, Blitar. In accordance with his wishes, he was laid to rest near the graves of his parents, approximately one kilometer from the family home.
The burial process was confirmed by his legal counsel, Fachrudin Umasugi, and local neighbors who observed the ambulance’s arrival and the subsequent funeral proceedings late Monday night.
