Batam Man Self-harms, Fabricates Robbery Claim After Breakup

A 23-year-old man identified as F claimed to be a robbery victim in Sagulung, Batam, Riau Islands, after fabricating the incident following a breakup with his girlfriend.

“Information regarding alleged robbery and assault circulating in the community is untrue,” said Kompol M. Debby Tri Andrestian, Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit at Barelang Police Resort, as reported by detikSumut on Sunday, 31 May 2026.

The incident began on 18 May 2026 at around 9:30 PM WIB when F argued with his girlfriend, identified as L, leading to their relationship ending. F then purchased a knife and self-inflicted injuries.

He told his mother he had recently been robbed. F also uploaded photos of the wounds to social media with a narrative of being a crime victim.

“The post spread widely after a friend shared it across various social media groups and online communities in Batam,” he said.

Police immediately launched an investigation and gathered evidence. However, after further inquiries, F admitted the injuries were self-inflicted.

“On 26 May 2026, he confessed that no robbery or assault had taken place. The wounds were self-inflicted,” he added.