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Three Police Officers Under Investigation in Junior Officer's Death

From Tempo · (1d ago) Indonesian Critical tone

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Three police officers are under investigation in Riau Islands, Indonesia, following the death of a junior officer, Bripda Natanael Simanungkalit.
  • The victim allegedly died after being assaulted by his seniors at a dormitory on April 13, 2026, reportedly for not participating in community work.
  • Authorities have arrested one suspect, Bripda AS, and are investigating the potential involvement of other officers in the assault.

The Riau Islands Regional Police are intensifying their investigation into the tragic death of Brigadir Polisi Dua Natanael Simanungkalit, a case that has sent shockwaves through the local police force. The young officer succumbed to injuries sustained during an alleged assault by his seniors at the dormitory on April 13, 2026, a stark reminder of the harsh realities that can exist within the ranks.

They are undergoing further examination.

— Asep SafrudinThe Kapolda of Riau Islands on the three officers arrested in connection with the death of Bripda Natanael Simanungkalit.

According to Kapolda Kepulauan Riau Inspector General Asep Safrudin, three officers present at the scene have been apprehended and are undergoing further examination. The alleged motive behind the brutal assault appears to stem from a perceived failure by Bripda Natanael to participate in community work, a reason that seems disproportionate to the tragic outcome. Despite efforts to save him at the Bhayangkara Hospital in Batam, the victim's life could not be saved.

For now, we have only named one member as a suspect, namely Bripda AS.

— Eddwi KurniyantoThe Head of the Profession and Security Division of the Riau Islands Police on the suspect in the assault case.

The Head of the Profession and Security Division of the Riau Islands Police, Commissioner Besar Eddwi Kurniyanto, confirmed that Bripda AS has been named the primary suspect. However, the investigation is ongoing, with authorities exploring the possibility of other personnel being involved in the incident. This commitment to a thorough investigation, as reiterated by Head of Public Relations Commissioner Besar Nona Pricillia Ohei, underscores the police's dedication to ensuring justice for Bripda Natanael and upholding the integrity of the force. The Riau Islands Police have vowed to take firm action against all involved, leaving no room for tolerance in such grave matters.

Several personnel have been secured and are still undergoing examination.

— Nona Pricillia OheiThe Head of Public Relations of the Riau Islands Police on the ongoing investigation into the alleged group assault.
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Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.