La Nyalla Condemns Violence Against Journalists In North Sumatra, Asks Police To Completely Investigate

JAKARTA - A journalist from a local media in North Sumatra named Marsalem Harahap, allegedly died due to being shot by an unknown person (OTK). The chairman of the DPD RI, AA La Nyalla Mahmud Mattalitti, asked the police to immediately thoroughly investigate this case.

Marsalem Harahap was found covered in blood in a car 300 meters from his residence, early Saturday, June 19. The editor-in-chief of the local media suffered a gunshot wound to the thigh and was pronounced dead after being taken to hospital.

"I condemn the violence against journalists in North Sumatra. Personally, I also express my deep condolences for the death of a fellow journalist, Marsalem Harahap, and may the bereaved family be given courage," LaNyalla said in a written statement received by VOI on Saturday, June 19.

The senator from East Java asked the National Police to thoroughly investigate this case. Because, this shooting is a form of threat to the journalist profession. “The police must immediately investigate and arrest the shooter. This incident cannot be ignored because it is a threat to journalistic activities,” he said.

According to LaNyalla, it is very important to reveal who the mastermind, perpetrators and motives behind this case are.

“Whether this is related to professional work or personal matters, or is there for other reasons, this must be disclosed immediately. We are sure that the police will work quickly, especially since many parties are highlighting this incident," said LaNyalla.

The member of the East Java PWI Advisory Council said that this was not the first time that journalists had experienced violence. AA La Nyalla Mahmud Mattalitti also encouraged increased protection for journalists.

“There are frequent cases of violence against journalists. Be it threats, beatings, or even murder. In fact, Law No. 40 of 1999 guarantees the protection of the press. So the protection of fellow journalists is absolutely necessary," said the former PSSI chairman.

La Nyalla reminded all journalists in Indonesia to be careful in their duties. Because journalists are one of the professions with high work risks.

“Seeking and obtaining information to share with the public is indeed important, and it is a noble task. But I hope that journalists put the safety of their souls first," concluded AA La Nyalla Mahmud Mattalitti.