Komnas HAM Asks Police To Be Responsive If There Is New Evidence Of Arya Daru's Diplomat Death Case

JAKARTA - The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has asked the police to continue to open a review room if new evidence is found in the case of the death of diplomat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) Arya Daru Pangayunan (ADP).

"To the police, in this case Polda Metro Jaya, to keep the space open to review if at a later date new evidence or facts arise regarding the death of ADP," said Komnas HAM Chairman Anis Hidayah as quoted by ANTARA, Wednesday, July 30.

Anis explained that Komnas HAM had reviewed the location where ADP's body was found, asked for statements from witnesses, family, and fellow victims, to check the results of police investigations and hospital examinations.

Based on these efforts, Komnas HAM concluded that until now there has been no evidence showing the involvement of other people in the incident of the diplomat's death.

Although no other party was involved, Komnas HAM seriously noted the circulation of photos and videos of ADP's body, footage from the scene, and CCTV footage spread through social media and news media without family approval.

"The distribution of sensitive visual information has not only deepened the sadness and trauma of the family, but also has the potential to violate the right to human dignity," said Anis.

Komnas HAM emphasized that the body must still be treated with respect and dignity. The negative narratives that accompany the dissemination of information without the family's consent are referred to as a form of degrading treatment.

Meanwhile, to the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and government and private agencies, Komnas HAM appealed to pay more attention to mental health issues in the work environment. This is part of fulfilling the right to health.

Komnas HAM also asked the mass media and the public to respect the right to the dignity of ADP and the privacy of their families by not disseminating visual material or information that has not been verified. The use of speculative and demeaning narratives is also asked to be avoided.

"Komnas HAM confirms that the spread of sensational and vulgar content related to this incident is not only against humanitarian ethics, but can also exacerbate the psychological suffering of the bereaved family," said Anis.

ADP was found dead with his head wrapped in duct tape at the house of Kost Guest House Gondia room 105, Jalan Gondangdia Kecil Number 22, Cikini Village, Menteng District, Central Jakarta, on Tuesday (8/7) at around 08.10 WIB.

Polda Metro Jaya conveyed the results of the investigation into the case (29/7).

The Directorate of General Criminal Investigation of the Metro Jaya Police concluded that ADP's death was without other people's involvement. The conclusion is based on the results of an investigation conducted by investigators involving several experts.

The police also did not find any harmful substances in the toxicology examination on ADP's body, while the National Police Forensic Laboratory Center (Puslabfor) stated that no DNA and fingerprints other than the ADP's at the location of the body were found.

Meanwhile, the Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) said the deceased died due to disturbances in the oxygen exchange in the upper airway which caused weakness.

On the other hand, the Forensic Psychology Association (Apsifor) of the Indonesian Psychology Association (Himpsi) found that ADP had accessed mental health services online around 2013 and 2021. ADP is suspected of experiencing psychological pressure.