Case Of Beating 3 Journalists In East Belitung, 14 People Arrested

JAKARTA - The Regional Police (Polda) of the Bangka Belitung Islands (Babel) conducted an investigation into a number of people suspected of beating three journalists who took place in Damar, East Belitung on Thursday, July 17.

The head of the Babel Regional Police, Inspector General of Police Hendro Pandowo in Pangkalpinang, Friday, said that the case of beating three journalists in East Belitung would be processed according to the applicable law.

"We regret the acts of violence experienced by journalists while carrying out coverage activities," he said.

The Kapolda claimed to have coordinated with the East Belitung Police Chief and currently the case has entered the investigation stage by examining as many as 14 people who have previously been arrested.

Of the 14 people who were arrested and examined, there were five people who were strongly indicated to be suspects.

"We will explore each other's roles for further development of this case, later direct coordination with the Head of Public Relations and the East Belitung Police Chief," he said.

The Regional Police Chief explained that the incident of the beating of journalists took place on Thursday, July 17 at around 13.00 WIB in the shrimp pond area owned by the company PT VIP.

At that time, three journalists together with the Forestry Service and village officials were checking the field. After checking, there were talks between journalists and residents.

"Maybe there was a misunderstanding and there was an allegation of a beating so that three journalists suffered bruises," he said.

Regarding this incident, the first step was to check with the East Belitung Police Chief and the Kapolda ordering to treat the wounds suffered by fellow journalists.

"I also ordered to take firm action and legal proceedings. The police chief has reported it to me, has immediately processed the crime scene and examined witnesses and took other evidence, such as videos from fellow journalists," he said.

The chairman of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) of Babel Province, Fathurrakhman, appreciated the police's quick response in uncovering and arresting the alleged perpetrators of the beating of journalists.

"We give our appreciation to the Babel Police and the ranks who have responded quickly with firm, professional, and measurable actions in uncovering cases of violence against journalists," he said.

In this case, the police have secured and examined 14 witnesses, this is a quick response and proof that the state does not remain silent. The National Police is present in the community by carrying out their role as the protector and guardian of the nation's morale.

According to him, the success of the disclosure of the case not only shows the rapid performance of the apparatus, but also proves the seriousness of the Police in maintaining a conducive situation in the region.

"PWI Babel fully supports the steps taken by the Police, there is no room for perpetrators of violent journalists," he said.