Man Arrested for Killing 3 Women, Two Bodies Found in Old Well

The Black Raven Task Force of Padang Pariaman Police has successfully arrested a man suspected of committing a gruesome triple homicide. The suspect, identified as Satria Johanda alias Wanda (25), reportedly murdered three young women, with two of the victims buried in an old well behind his home and the third dumped in the Batang Anai River.

The case unraveled when the body of one of the victims, Septia Dinda, was discovered floating in the river. Following an intensive investigation and questioning, Wanda confessed to having killed two other women a year earlier — Siska Oktavia Rusdi (known as Cika) and Adek Gustiana. This chilling admission prompted police to begin an excavation of an abandoned well near the suspect’s house in Pasar Usang, Batang Anai District.

According to police reports, Wanda killed his victims at different times, but with similar methods that involved physical violence and concealment of their bodies. The discovery of the well and his confession triggered a large-scale operation by local police and emergency agencies on Thursday, June 19, 2025, to recover the remains of the victims believed to be hidden there for over a year.

The atmosphere was tense during the excavation as local residents gathered in disbelief. Authorities cordoned off the area to maintain order and ensure the integrity of the crime scene. A foul odor emerging from the well reinforced suspicions that the corpses had been buried there for months, if not longer.

This case has shocked not only the local community but also gained national attention due to the brutal nature of the crimes. According to the police, Wanda—described by neighbors as a quiet man—may have shown early signs of psychological distress. He has since been declared a formal suspect and is currently being held for further investigation.

Chief of Police for Padang Pariaman, AKBP Ahmad Faisol Amir, confirmed that the case stemmed from the ongoing investigation into Septia Dinda’s murder. “This appears to be a serial killing, and we are investigating the motive and the possibility of more victims,” he said during a press briefing.

Police psychologists will now assess the suspect’s mental health, while investigators dig deeper into his personal relationships and history. Authorities believe more revelations may emerge as forensic and psychological evaluations continue.

In the meantime, police have urged the public to avoid spreading speculation and to report any recent disappearances. A public hotline has been opened for those who suspect that their missing relatives might be linked to the case.