Head Monkey Shooter in NTT Arrested by Police

KUPANG - The Malaka Police arrested two residents of Rainawe Village, Kobalima District, Malaka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, who were suspected of being involved in the persecution of a monkey or monkey.

Head of Public Relations of the NTT Police, Kombes Henry Novika Chandra, said that the two perpetrators with initials JX and JRD were arrested on Thursday (22/1).

"The two suspected perpetrators were arrested by the Buser Unit of the Criminal Investigation Unit together with Unit IV of the Malaka Police Intelligence Unit in Raihenek Village, Rainawe Village," he said, quoted by ANTARA, Friday, January 23.

Previously, a viral video on social media showed the two perpetrators beating the monkey with a stick and then shooting the monkey's head with a pneumatic gun.

The actions of the two, received various comments from nitizen. JX himself is a 35-year-old man and works as a farmer, while JRD who is suspected to be his son is 18 years old and a student.

Based on initial information collected by the police, the alleged persecution incident occurred on Tuesday (20/1).

Currently, the two residents have been secured in the Malaka Police Criminal Investigation Unit to undergo further examination.

The police also secured evidence in the form of a single air rifle that was allegedly used in the incident.

Henry emphasized that the NTT Police fully supported the rapid steps taken by the Malaka Police in cracking down on any acts that violate the law, including acts of violence against animals.

"The National Police does not tolerate any form of violence, both against fellow human beings and against animals," he said.

The police will follow up on the case in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, as well as prioritize a professional and transparent investigation process.

"We also appeal to the public not to take any action to be a judge or be violent against animals. If there is an incident that has the potential to violate the law, immediately report it to the police to be handled according to procedure," he added.

Until now, investigators are still investigating the statements of the suspected perpetrators and witnesses to determine the next legal steps. The development of the case will be conveyed to the public according to the results of the investigation.