Supporters Of Rizieq Shihab Riot In The East Jakarta District Court, Legal Experts: Unproductive

Masses of supporters of Rizieq Shihab at the Pondok Kopi Flyover, East Jakarta (Photo: Era.id Youtube screenshot)

JAKARTA - Criminal Law expert from Al Azhar University, Suparji Ahmad, said that the actions of Rizieq Shihab's supporters, who were involved in the riots because they were not allowed to enter the East Jakarta District Court area, were a futile act. Because no results are obtained from this action.

"The action movement is also not very productive in the context of the judge's decision to examine and decide the case," Suparji told VOI, Thursday, June 24.

"The case is decided by the judge independently by the judge based on the objective facts of the trial," he continued.

However, Suparji highlighted the attitude of the masses who seemed not to care about the spread of COVID-19. Because, in this action it is not possible to apply the health protocol (prokes), namely maintaining distance.

"It's quite worrying because in the midst of the raging COVID-19 pandemic situation," said Suparji.

Criminal Offense

Meanwhile, for the possibility of criminal violations, Suparji said that the police had to follow up. But, only on serious offenses.

However, if it is only a minor violation, it is advisable not to investigate further. The goal is to avoid negative opinions regarding law enforcement.

"Yes, if it is disbanded and there is no element of violation, then there is no need for a follow-up," he said.

For information, supporters and sympathizers of Rizieq Shihab had packed the East Jakarta District Court. In fact, they had clashed with the police.

The East Jakarta Metro Police Chief, Kombes Erwin Kurniawan, said that one of the triggers for the clashes was that Rizieq's supporters had thrown an officer's vehicle into the river.

"Actually, there was a member's vehicle that was put into the river by the protesters, causing a bit of chaos," said Erwin.

However, the clash can be stopped. The police tried to coordinate with the coordinator of the mass supporters of Rizieq Shihab.

The masses, continued Erwin, asked to be in front of the East Jakarta District Court. But for reasons of implementing health protocols (prokes) this wish could not be fulfilled.

"Of course it must be understood that maintaining a distance so that there are no crowds is the main thing to keep the community members from being exposed to COVID-19, which is the main basis," said Erwin.