Banyuasin Fisherman Shot While Fishing In Tanjung Birik Waters

Illustration of firearms (Pixabay)

PALEMBANG - A fisherman from Sungsang Village, Banyuasin II District, Banyuasin Regency, named Yogi Pratama (26), suffered a gunshot wound to the neck while catching fish in Tanjung Birik Waters, Saturday, July 12 at around 13.00 WIB.

This incident was witnessed directly by Rusdianto (53), the captain of the pompong ship who was with the victim and three other crew members, namely Adi (28), Iyan (20), and Bayu (20). One other ship that took part in the sea was driven by Ishak, along with the crew of the Ipin, Ipal, and Kandar ships.

According to Rusdianto's statement who was met at the Ar-Rasyid Islamic Hospital, Palembang, quoted by ANTARA, when they were on their way home after catching fish when a large ship passed from the direction of Bangka, then turned around towards them.

"I told the children, be careful, it was a patrol boat. We were in the waters of Tanjung Birik, a little into the middle," said Rusdianto.

Shortly thereafter, the ship lowered a rubber boat containing eight people in striped uniforms. Without warning, the boat approached and opened fire at their ship.

Because of the big waves, I moved away to avoid it. However, the rubber boat continued to catch up. My other ship was left behind," he explained.

In this tense situation, Yogi, who was moving the fish from the net to the storage area, was hit by a shot in the neck, just below Jakun.

"Yogi shouted if he was shot. I immediately shouted at them, 'this is my subordinate who was shot,' while showing Yogi's wound. However, the boat went to my other ship," continued Rusdianto.

Seeing Yogi's condition which was seriously injured, Rusdianto decided to return to the ground immediately. Due to difficulties in signaling, he was overwhelmed by asking for help. At around 17.00 WIB, aid finally came through a speedboat that picked them up to Sungsang.

The victim received initial treatment at the Sungsang Health Center, then was referred to the Ar-Rasyid Islamic Hospital, Palembang, in the evening.

Until now, there has been no official statement from the authorities regarding the identity of the ship suspected of shooting or the motive behind the incident. The family hopes that there will be an explanation and justice for the incident that happened to Yogi.