DPR Asks Perpetrators Of Beating 8 Journalists In Banten To Be Dealt With Firmly

Illustration of police apples (ANTARA)

JAKARTA Member of Commission I DPR RI, Syamsu Rizal, condemned the beatings against eight journalists covering the inspection of the Ministry of Environment (KLH) at the PT Genesis Regency Smelting factory, Jawilan District, Serang Regency, Banten. He asked that this case be thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators of the beatings were dealt with firmly.

Moreover, said Syamsu Rizal, there were allegations of involvement of unscrupulous Brimob members in the violence that occurred on Thursday, August 21, that.

"Violence against journalists is a real form of violation of press freedom. The state must be present to provide protection. The perpetrators, whoever they are, must be prosecuted fairly and transparently," said Syamsu Rizal to reporters, Friday, August 22.

According to Rizal, if it is true that Brimob members are involved, then law enforcement officers and police institutions must impose strict sanctions indiscriminately.

"For Brimob officers who are proven to have beaten them must be severely punished. There should be no impression of omission, because this tarnishes the name of the institution and creates fear for the press in carrying out their duties," he said.

Syamsu Rizal emphasized that press freedom is a pillar of democracy that must be maintained. According to him, journalists have a strategic role to provide correct information to the public, so that all forms of intimidation and violence against them are threats to democracy.

The legislator from the South Sulawesi electoral district I also invited the Press Council, professional organizations of journalists, and human rights protection agencies to participate in overseeing this case to completion.

"We at Commission I of the DPR RI will monitor the progress of this case. I ask the authorities not to play games, law enforcement must be carried out firmly and openly," he concluded.

As reported, journalists made coverage at the official invitation of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. Initially they were prevented from entering by the company's security forces. However, after the Deputy KLH ordered the media to be involved in the coverage, journalists were finally allowed to enter under escort.

However, after the inspection was completed and KLH officials left the factory, journalists were immediately beaten by security guards, members of mass organizations, and Brimob personnel. In fact, the perpetrators used sharp weapons. As a result, journalists suffered serious injuries and had to be taken to the hospital.