Parking dispute ends in fatal shooting by police officer in Palu

A heated argument over parking in Palu, Central Sulawesi, escalated tragically when a police officer fatally shot a parking attendant. The incident occurred Thursday night when Aipda AA, a member of the Central Sulawesi Regional Police's Profession and Security Division (Propam), approached his vehicle after shopping at a minimarket.

The parking attendant, identified as Dedi, reportedly confronted Aipda AA. According to police reports, a scuffle ensued during which Dedi allegedly brandished a machete and attacked the officer. Aipda AA claims he was defending himself, sustaining injuries to his right hand and losing part of his left finger before drawing his firearm.

In what police described as a self-defense situation, Aipda AA fired his weapon, reportedly between seven and eight shots, at Dedi. The attendant was rushed to Anutapura Hospital but later died from his injuries. During the exchange, a bystander, identified only by the initials MA, was reportedly hit by a stray bullet in the neck while observing the scene from a nearby shoe repair shop.

Both Aipda AA and MA were taken to different hospitals for treatment. The Central Sulawesi Regional Police have launched an investigation into the incident, securing the scene and conducting an evidence assessment. Aipda AA will undergo a Propam examination, and if negligence or procedural violations in the use of his firearm are found, he will face disciplinary action.