Ambon Police Investigate Cases Of Clashes In Trikora Monument

Kapolresta Pulau Ambon dan Pulau-Pulaau Lease Kombes Pol Driyano Andri Ibrahim, (foto: dok. antara)

AMBON-Angkat Police Resort Ambon City and Lease Islands are investigating a case of clashes between residents that occurred in the Tugu Trikora area, Ambon, on Saturday, January 11 evening.

The head of the Ambon and Lease Islands Police, Police Commissioner Driyano Andri Ibrahim, said that his party was conducting further investigations into the incident, involving throwing, beating, and other violence. The Maluku Police Ditreskrimum is also looking for the perpetrators who are suspected of triggering this conflict.

According to information obtained, the commotion started with an argument between young people involved in illegal racing and getting drunk around the Trikora Monument in Ambon City. This small dispute sparked a crowd of people to eventually develop into clashes that spread to several main roads and residential areas.

As a result of the clashes, three motorcycles and one building were reported to have caught fire. Several people also suffered injuries from stone throwing. Police who received reports since Sunday, January 12, immediately moved to the scene.

The Ambon Police Chief emphasized that after holding a meeting with the regional leadership communication forum (forkopimda), religious leaders, community leaders, and youth, it was agreed that the incident was purely a crime incident, not related to SARA or religious issues.

Driyano said that the incident was triggered by juvenile delinquency who consumed alcohol, which later grew into a commotion.

Currently, the conditions around Tugu Trikora are gradually conducive. The police together with community leaders and religious leaders continue to coordinate to prevent further clashes. In addition, patrols are also increased in vulnerable areas to ensure the situation remains under control.

The police have also reactivated security posts at several points prone to clashes, with the support of the TNI and local governments. The police chief added that patrols would be carried out every day to anticipate and minimize similar incidents.

The police are committed to thoroughly investigating this case and will take firm action against the perpetrators who are found guilty in accordance with applicable legal provisions.