Indonesian Navy Denies Sailor's Death Due to Violence, Attributes It to Suicide
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The First Fleet Command (Koarmada I) stated that the death of Indonesian Navy sailor Kelasi Dua (KLD) Ghofirul Kasyfi (22) on the Republic of Indonesia Ship (KRI) dr Radjiman Wedyodiningrat-992 was not due to any act of violence but rather suicide.
“The results of the medical examination conclude that the cause of the late sailor’s death was purely due to hanging, not due to any act of violence,” said the Head of Information Service (Kadispen) of Koarmada I, Colonel (N) Ary Mahayasa, in his statement on Monday (4/5/2026).
He also clarified reports regarding alleged physical irregularities on the body.
Based on the official visum et repertum results from the Navy Central Hospital (RSPAL) dr Mintohardjo, Jakarta, dated 26 April 2026, no signs of blunt object violence were found on the victim’s body.
“No bleeding was found in the groin area as per the circulating information. The visum examination was also attended by the family of the late sailor,” he emphasised.
Medically, the pattern and characteristics of the wounds are identical to hanging suicide cases.
Meanwhile, the visible bruises seen before the burial were livor mortis, which is a definite sign of death due to the cessation of blood circulation, causing red blood cells to settle in the lowest parts of the body due to gravity.
The Navy’s visit to the late sailor’s home was because the individual had been absent several times during personnel checks on the ship.
“Therefore, the KRI requested assistance from the Batuporon Naval Base (Lanal) to visit the residence and inquire about the late sailor’s whereabouts,” he explained.
The victim has now been buried with military honours on 27 April 2026 at the Kemayoran Public Cemetery, Bangkalan, East Java.
Koarmada I conveyed deep condolences over the passing of Ghofirul Kasyfi and prayed for the best for the late sailor and the family left behind.
The Indonesian Navy also urged the media and the public to refer to official statements to avoid speculation that could hurt the family’s feelings or damage the institution’s reputation.