Receive Explanation From North Sumatra Police, Komnas HAM: Suspect In Human Cage Case Immediately Arrested

Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) RI Ahmad Taufan Damanik. (Photo: Doc. Antara)

JAKARTA - The chairman of the Indonesian National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) Ahmad Taufan Damanik said the police immediately arrested eight suspects in the human cage case belonging to the Langkat Regent, who was not active in the issuance of the Warring Wind Plan.

"Their explanation (the police) said there were technical legal reasons that would soon be resolved, if it was finished the suspect would be arrested," said Komnas HAM chairman Ahmad Taufan Damanik, quoted by Antara, Sunday, April 3.

Some time ago, said Taufan, a team from the North Sumatra Regional Police (Polda) came to Komnas HAM. The visit was for coordination and to ask about Komnas HAM's recommendations for the human cage case.

To the North Sumatran Police Team, Komnas HAM informed all the recommendations issued by the agency, including discussing the reasons the local police had not arrested eight suspects.

At first, Taufan admitted that he was surprised because the police had not arrested the eight people even though they were already suspects. However, after receiving the police explanation, Komnas HAM understood the situation.

"At first we were surprised why they weren't arrested. Because this is a very serious incident," he said.

From a legal point of view, institutional administration or from a human rights perspective, the actions taken by Terbit Plan Warin Angin are clearly contradictory.

"We must not allow this case. Because in that case there was violence, torture, slavery and human trafficking," said Taufan.

Komnas HAM also questioned the process, because from the start the agency had coordinated with the National Police Headquarters, the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the North Sumatra Police.

He said Komnas HAM is currently still waiting for the next few days regarding the steps to be taken by the North Sumatra Police, especially regarding the detention of eight suspects.

Komnas HAM reminded not to take steps from the North Sumatra Police that could create public distrust in the legal process.